Lusaka, 3rd August 2024.
The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) has clarified information circulating in some quarters of the media concerning the intercepted trucks carrying medicines belonging to the Government of the Republic of Zambia in Botswana and Chililabombwe respectively.
In a statement today, ZAMMSA senior public relations Manager Bradley Chingobe said contrary to media reports, no truck was intercepted in Bostwana. Only one truck was intercepted and that was in Chililabombwe.
Mr. Chingobe explained that the truck in question does not belong to ZAMMSA.
He added that it was a private vehicle and none of the arrested suspects work for ZAMMSA.
“We have also been in touch with Ministry of Health, Permanent Secretary Technical Services, Dr Kennedy Lishimpi, who the story is alluded to and he has confirmed that he was misquoted and has henceforth asked for the story to be retracted.” Mr. Chingobe said
Meanwhile, Mr. Chingobe condemned the continued abuse, misuse and pilfering of government medicines at all levels of the supply chain.
He however commended the Zambia Police Service for their vigilance and arrest of suspects.
“ZAMMSA is gratified with the arrests as it strengthens government’s resolve to protect health commodities for the public health supply chain.” Mr. Chingobe stated
And Mr. Chingobe noted that the misuse, misappropriation and stealing of government medicines and medical supplies deprives majority Zambians from accessing quality healthcare services.
He since commended the police for the arrests of the perpetrators of the vice.
“Further, ZAMMSA would like to call on the public to be arlet and join the law enforcement agencies in the fight against the abuse, misuse and stealing of government medicines and medical supplies.” Mr. Chingobe added
