Uganda National Drug Authority Cracks Down on ARV Theft скачать в хорошем качестве

Uganda National Drug Authority Cracks Down on ARV Theft

In a bold move to combat the illegal trade of life-saving medications, the Uganda National Drug Authority's (NDA) Intelligence and Enforcement team arrested four people, including a health worker, for stealing and attempting to sell antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) intended for HIV patients. Ronald Kibalya Nditusawa, a health worker at Kamuli Hospital was caught red-handed with 12 boxes containing 720 tins of ARVs, totaling 64,800 doses. These drugs, clearly marked "Government of Uganda, Not for Sale," were destined for Nansana, Wakiso District. Kibalya was arrested alongside Mwesigwa Moses, Bwambale Walter, and Mumbere Godfrey as they tried to transport the stolen drugs in a saloon car, Reg No. UBN 848Y. This arrest is part of NDA's ongoing efforts to combat the theft and smuggling of government drugs. According to NDA, since March 2024, the authority has recovered stolen medications worth over 2.5 billion shillings. Intelligence suggests that these stolen drugs are smuggled and sold at inflated prices in neighboring countries, including South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The theft of ARVs is particularly concerning. given the critical role these medications play in managing HIV. NDA further cautions the public that all government medications is free of charge and should desist from buying them or even go ahead to report such people to the authorities. In Uganda, approximately 1.49 million people live with HIV, with a remarkable 95% of them accessing ARV treatment. The illegal trade of these life-saving drugs not only undermines public health but also puts the lives of vulnerable individuals at risk.