The National Drug Authority (NDA) has closed 45 illegal clinics across northern Uganda as part of a major crackdown on unlicensed medical facilities and the theft of government-supplied medicines.
The one-week operation, which covered Kitgum, Gulu, Amolatar, Pader, and Kwania districts, also saw officials seize 189 boxes of assorted medicines valued at over Shs 125 million, according to NDA spokesperson Abiaz Rwamwiri.
Rwamwiri said several individuals were arrested during the enforcement exercise for unlawful possession of government drugs and running unlicensed health facilities. Among those apprehended are Alexander Odiya, director of Health Care Drug in Pader; Emmanuel Kizza, director of Mighty Medical Clinic; Andrew Omara, Edmond Okadia, Hanold Odoi, and Alexandra Ogwang.
“These individuals were found with government-labelled drugs and operating clinics without the required authorisation. Such actions not only endanger patients but also undermine the integrity of our public health system,” Rwamwiri said.
The confiscated medicines included anti-malarials, malaria testing kits, and antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, many of which were meant for lower-level government health facilities. Authorities say the drugs were being illegally sold in private clinics and pharmacies for personal profit.
The suspects are expected to face charges of illegal possession of government drugs and unauthorised operation of medical facilities. Their case files will be submitted to the Utility Court in Kampala, which handles offences related to wildlife crime and theft of government property, pending sanction by the state attorney.
Rwamwiri said that NDA is committed to maintaining strict oversight of Uganda’s pharmaceutical sector, warning that the crackdown will continue across the country.
“We are determined to eliminate the circulation of stolen, expired, and substandard medicines,” he said. “Our goal is to protect patients and ensure that only safe and authorised drugs are available on the market.”
