Minister of Health Alex Katakwe has directed the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) to submit a report addressing the shortage of drugs and medical supplies in some health facilities. Meanwhile, Zambia has completed setting up a factory to manufacture rapid test kits for malaria, HIV, hepatitis B, pregnancy, cholera, and common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). So far, 5,000 kits have been produced and are awaiting validation.
Dr Katakwe, who stated that he is adjusting well to his new role, said he wants to establish the root cause of the low stock levels of medicines and supplies in certain health facilities so corrective measures can be taken. Ten days ago, when he was sworn in, President Hakainde Hichilema tasked him with ensuring the timely distribution of medicines to health facilities across the country. Speaking to journalists yesterday, Dr Katakwe said he is acting on the presidential directive.
“We are very proactive. Shortly after I was sworn in, within two days, I convened a meeting with the ZAMMSA director general and management team,” he said. “I requested a comprehensive report outlining the challenges and reasons behind the shortage of medicines and low stock levels in health facilities.” Dr Katakwe attributed the problem largely to poor work culture.
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“The work culture in Zambia tends to be laissez-faire, where people often need to be pushed. It is our responsibility to ensure that systems are enforced and people are held accountable,” he said.
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