NDA closes 96 illegal drug outlets in southwestern Uganda
This was during NDA's week-long compliance enforcement operation that targeted illegal drugs and operators in the region, covering the districts of Ntungamo, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, Kisoro and Mbarara.
NDA officials loading boxes of medicines on a pickup truck, which were impounded during NDA's week-long crackdown on illegal drugs and operators in southwestern Uganda. (Photo by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)
By Abdulkarim Ssengendo
Journalists @New Vision
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The National Drug Authority (NDA) has closed 96 drug outlets and impounded 185 boxes of assorted medicines in southwestern Uganda.
This was during NDA's week-long compliance enforcement operation that targeted illegal drugs and operators in the region, covering the districts of Ntungamo, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, Kisoro and Mbarara.
Dr. Kenneth Kiiza, the NDA southwestern region officer, addressed journalists at the conclusion of the operation at the NDA regional offices in Mbarara city.
He said two police cases were registered involving two individuals arrested for operating as pharmacists without a valid license, contrary to Section 14 (3) of the NDA and Authority Act, Cap 198.
Alfred Akali, the NDA senior inspector of drugs, said the operation was in line with the authority's mandate to protect and promote public health through effective regulation of human and animal medicines, as well as healthcare products.
He advised the operators of outlets whose drugs were impounded to visit the NDA regional offices in Mbarara City for compliance guidance and reclaim their drugs.
NDA warned that operating without a license exposes the public to health risks.
“Unqualified handling of medicines, poor storage and other unsafe practices can result in harmful effects to the population," said Kiiza.
The authority directed all unlicensed operators to immediately stop operations and comply with the legal requirements for selling drugs and healthcare products in Uganda.
“We also urge the public to buy drugs only from licensed pharmacies and drug shops, and to report any suspected drug-related crimes via our toll-free line 0800 101 999 or WhatsApp line 0740 002 070," added Kiiza.
Kudra Mulindwa, the NDA senior inspector of drugs in the enforcement department, tasked the general public with being cautious when buying drugs.
“Before buying anything, look around and see if there is that yellow paper. For drug shops, it has a photo of the in-charge. That is one signal that can show you that you are at the right place," he said.
Mulindwa also said that as the 2025 licensing cycle comes to a close, NDA will officially open the 2026 licensing period in October, and all operators are encouraged to prepare in advance.