MCAZ Director General, Richard Rukwata
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) and the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in the regulation of medical products between the two countries.
It is reported that the strategic partnership aims to enhance regulatory functions through collaboration in areas such as the detection of substandard and falsified medicines, track-and-trace systems, nanotechnology and biotechnology for medicines, vaccine and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) production, and other emerging scientific and regulatory domains.
The agreement is effective for five years and may be renewed upon mutual consent.
“This agreement underscores a shared commitment to advancing public health, fostering innovation, and ensuring access to safe, quality, and efficacious medical products for citizens of both nations.
“The MoU establishes a robust framework for technical cooperation, including information sharing, capacity building, joint participation in international fora, mutual recognition of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) inspections, and fostering investment by pharmaceutical industries across both countries,” read a joint press release.
Speaking on the significance of the MoU, MCAZ Director-General, Richard Rukwata, said: “this collaboration marks a significant milestone in regional regulatory convergence. By working together, ZAMRA and MCAZ will leverage each other’s expertise and resources to strengthen the fight against substandard and falsified medical products, and promote public health and safety in both nations.”
And ZAMRA Director-General, Makomani Siyanga, added: “this partnership underscores our shared commitment to ensuring that only safe, effective, and quality-assured medical products are accessible in our respective markets.
“It represents a proactive step toward harmonization, efficiency, and innovation in our regulatory systems.”
Both parties remain committed to promoting regulatory excellence, improving access to qualityassured medicines, and contributing to the broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage in the region.
