The National Drug Authority (NDA) has issued a public warning urging caution when purchasing HIV test kits and medications, following the discovery of expired and altered products being sold in downtown Kampala.
A recent investigation led by the NDA’s surveillance and enforcement team uncovered the illegal practices at several pharmacies along Wilson Street in the city center.
Abiaz Rwamwiri, the NDA’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed that ten individuals were arrested during the operation, where they were found in possession of HIV test kits and drugs with altered expiry dates. The investigation also revealed anti-malarial drugs labeled “Government of Uganda, not for sale”, raising concerns about the broader scale of the illegal trade in medical products.
The operation follows a similar raid conducted in Eastern Uganda, where the sale of HIV drugs, anti-malarial medications, and test kits was reported in open markets in Bukhaweka and Butilu in Namisindwa district, and Arapai in Soroti city. The sale of such products outside of regulated channels raises concerns about the potential dangers posed to public health.
Health experts are alarmed by the possibility that individuals may be receiving incorrect HIV test results, which could lead to unnecessary anxiety or false security regarding their health status. Inaccurate results could also prevent individuals from seeking the appropriate medical treatment and care.
In response to these findings, the NDA has taken steps to address the issue. Following the confiscation of expired and counterfeit drugs, the NDA received approval from the Makindye Utilities Court to donate some of the recovered government drugs to government-run health facilities in six districts: Luweero, Kayunga, Buikwe, Buvuma, Mukono, and Nakasongola. These districts have been experiencing frequent stockouts of anti-retroviral drugs and other essential medical supplies.
The NDA has urged the public to be cautious when purchasing HIV test kits and other medicines, advising them to buy only from licensed pharmacies and health facilities to ensure the safety and efficacy of the products.
The investigation into the illegal sale of expired and counterfeit drugs is ongoing, with the NDA committed to taking further action to protect the public from unsafe and fraudulent medical products.
