BY NYARADZO CHITUNGO
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has stepped up efforts to combat the illegal sale of medicines after joining the National Clean-Up Campaign held last Friday.
The National Clean-Up Campaign is in line with the Government’s directive that the exercise be observed on the first Friday of every month.
MCAZ deployed inspection teams to Gweru and Kwekwe, where officials removed medicines and allied substances being sold through informal and unregulated street markets.
The Authority said the operation targeted products whose safety, quality and efficacy cannot be guaranteed, warning that the illicit trade exposes the public to substandard and falsified medical products.
In addition to the clean-up exercise, MCAZ conducted public awareness campaigns in both cities to educate residents on the rational use of medicines, the dangers of drug and substance abuse and the importance of purchasing medicines only from licensed pharmacies and approved health facilities.
“MCAZ remains committed to protecting public health by curbing the proliferation of illicit medicines in our communities while empowering members of the public with knowledge to make informed and safe choices regarding medicine use and access,” the Authority said.
The Authority urged the public to play an active role in fighting the illegal medicine trade.
“We encourage members of the public to report any suspected illegal sale of medicines and allied substances to the nearest police station or directly to MCAZ. Public cooperation is critical in protecting communities from unsafe and unregulated medical products,” added the Authority.
