Uganda authorities shut down 109 illegal drug outlets

The National Drug Authority (NDA) closed 109 illegal drug outlets in the Kamuli, Luuka, Bugiri, and Jinja districts of Uganda during a weeklong enforcement operation.

Spokesperson Abiaz Rwamwiri reported that the agency seized 260 boxes of assorted medicines worth more than Shs65 million during the crackdown. The agency identified several violations, including the use of unlicensed facilities, substandard premises, and the employment of unqualified staff to dispense medication.

These activities increase the risk of antimicrobial resistance and treatment failure for patients. The operation follows a series of crackdowns across the country. Authorities recently sentenced a serial dealer to three years in prison for selling unlicensed drugs and government stores. The agency also conducted covert operations in Kampala and the Kisasi area, where they arrested individuals and a midwife for possessing large quantities of antiretrovirals and other medications.

The NDA told operators to stop working until they meet all licensing requirements. The agency also advised the public to buy medicines only from licensed shops and to report illegal activities using a toll-free line.