Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 21st July, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Zambia (PSZ) has called for swift structural and leadership reforms at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) in the wake of the forensic audit conducted by PwC, emphasizing the need for strengthened governance and accountability within the pharmaceutical supply chain.
The professional body, which represents pharmacists across Zambia, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for commissioning the audit, describing it as a vital step towards enhancing transparency in the health sector. However, PSZ expressed concern over not yet receiving the audit report, limiting its ability to provide informed technical input.
PSZ President Keegan Mwape emphasized the urgent need for appointing a substantive Director General at ZAMMSA, citing leadership instability and non-transparent appointment processes that have undermined operational effectiveness at the agency. He further urged the Ministry of Health to appoint a qualified pharmaceutical supply chain expert to lead the institution, noting that Zambia has a strong pool of pharmacists with the necessary expertise.
The Society also called for the immediate constitution of functional boards for ZAMMSA, the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) and the Health Professions Council of Zambia (HPCZ) to ensure institutional oversight and strategic direction.
Amid ongoing concerns about medicine theft, which recently led to the suspension of USD 50 million in medical aid from the U.S. Government, PSZ underscored the effectiveness of existing systems like barcoding and electronic logistics management if backed by professional leadership and adequate staffing. The Society highlighted that pharmacists are unfairly blamed for thefts in a system where over 90% of supply chain leadership in public facilities is held by non-pharmacy personnel and where pharmaceutical staff are present in less than 30% of health facilities.
PSZ presented a five-point action plan, including:
1. Nationwide rollout of barcoding and traceability systems.
2. Speedy prosecution of medicine theft cases.
3. Upgrading the Pharmaceutical Unit at the Ministry of Health into a fully-fledged department.
4. Recruitment of more pharmacists and pharmacy technologists.
5. Strengthening governance structures in line with financial investments in medical supplies.
The Society also applauded the government’s increased allocation of ZMW 5 billion towards medicines and medical supplies, urging further prioritization of medicine distribution in the 2026 budget to enhance access and equity, especially as some donors withdraw aid.
“We reaffirm our commitment to work with the Ministry of Health and partners to ensure essential medicines reach all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable,” PSZ stated, expressing confidence that under President Hichilema and Health Minister Dr. Elijah Muchima, meaningful reforms will be implemented to safeguard Zambia’s healthcare system.
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