Safeguarding Zim: MCAZ reinforces strategies to co...

Safeguarding Zim: MCAZ reinforces strategies to combat drug abuse

**MCAZ Director-General Richard Rukwata**

Patience Muchemwa

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe is committed to protecting public and animal health through its regulatory functions, the Authority announced yesterday.

Speaking at a press conference in Harare yesterday, MCAZ Director-General Richard Rukwata said MCAZ recognizes the urgent need to combat drug and substance abuse in Zimbabwe.

“MCAZ’s primary responsibility is to regulate medicines and medical devices in Zimbabwe. Through our robust regulatory framework, we ensure that only safe, effective, and quality medicines are available on the market.

“By doing so, we aim to prevent the circulation of counterfeit drugs and unregistered substances that can contribute to drug abuse. In this regard, the Authority, has revoked six permits for wholesale dealers and cancelled four persons licences who were promoting abuse of Histalix, a locally produced cough mixture containing codeine, by illegally selling it at Mbare and places likes Chitungwiza and others were exporting to Zambia and Mozambique.

“The Authority has put in place mechanism to control availability of codeine containing medicines by making the prescription preparations. This means that they cannot be dispensed without the provision of a valid prescription. However, the Authority notes with concern that over-the-counter medicines from other countries are continuously being imported illegally,” the MCAZ director-general said.

In addition to the regulatory role, Rukwata said, MCAZ actively collaborates with other government agencies and partners in implementing strategies aimed at preventing drug abuse, including law enforcement agencies to combat illicit drug trafficking and ensuring strict adherence to regulations governing controlled substances.

In that regard, MCAZ is working with various stakeholders, including the police, CID Drugs, National Prosecuting Authority, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and port health officials to educate them on the entry of these drugs through the ports of entry or illegal channels.

The Authority holds trainings with these stakeholders on a regular basis and has held five trainings in Masvingo, Beitbridge, Zvishavane, Victoria Falls and Mutare this year.

MCAZ, Rukwata said, places great emphasis on public education and awareness campaigns as the Authority believes that knowledge is power when it comes to preventing drug and substance abuse. They also have exhibitions, radio and television programmes, schools and community outreach programme in an effort to educate the public about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.

The Authority, according to the MCAZ director-general, acknowledges that the fight against drug and substance abuse requires a united front from all sectors of society, and, as such, MCAZ encourages individuals who may be struggling with substance use disorders or know someone who is affected by it to seek help from healthcare professionals or support groups available within their communities.

The Authority also exhorts medical professionals to adhere to pharmaceutical regulations or risk losing their licences.

“Together with our partners and stakeholders across Zimbabwe, MCAZ remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting public health by combating drug and substance abuse. The MCAZ urges everyone to join in this critical endeavour as the country strive for a healthier future for all,” added Rukwata.