Teso Sub-region, Uganda — The National Drug Authority (NDA) has closed 105 illegal drug outlets and impounded 260 boxes of medicines worth Shs65 million during a week-long enforcement operation across five districts in the Teso Sub-region.
The operation covered Kaberamaido, Ngora, Kapelebyong, Kalaki, and Soroti, targeting unlicensed facilities, unsuitable premises, and outlets operated by unqualified personnel dispensing medicines.
Tom Makumbi, the Senior Inspector of Drugs at NDA for the Teso Sub-region, said the crackdown aimed to eliminate illegal practices that pose serious risks to public health.
“These practices contribute to the circulation of poor-quality drugs, irrational use of medicines, treatment failures, and antimicrobial resistance,” Makumbi said.
He explained that the operation aligns with NDA’s mandate to protect public health through effective regulation of both human and animal medicines.
Makumbi urged operators to formalize their businesses and seek guidance from NDA regional offices to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Kaberamaido Worst Affected
According to NDA officials, Kaberamaido District emerged as the worst offender, with authorities recovering 44 boxes of medicines from illegal outlets during the operation.
Improved Compliance Noted
Despite the closures, the authority reported improved compliance compared to previous years. The number of licensed drug shops in the region increased significantly from 184 last year to 1,010 licensed outlets this year, reflecting greater adherence to regulations following earlier enforcement efforts that saw about 100 outlets shut down.
However, NDA cited logistical challenges, noting that the vast Teso Sub-region — which comprises 19 districts — makes comprehensive enforcement difficult.
Call for Qualified Personnel
Meanwhile, Alfred Akali, Senior Inspector of Drugs attached to enforcement, called on qualified pharmaceutical personnel to take advantage of the opportunity to open licensed drug shops, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
He said expanding access to regulated services would help communities obtain safe and reliable medicines while reducing dependence on illegal outlets.
Authorities have vowed to continue routine inspections and enforcement operations to safeguard the public against unsafe and substandard drugs.
