The National Drug Authority (NDA) has concluded a week-long enforcement operation targeting illegal drug outlets across the Southwestern Region, resulting in the closure of more than 75 non-compliant facilities in Kiruhura, Kazo, Sanga, and Ibanda districts.
During the crackdown, the Authority impounded approximately 250 boxes of assorted medicines valued at over shs70 million.
The operation also led to the arrest of Ronald Atwine, proprietor of Katamba Human Drug Shop in Ibanda District, who was found in possession of unclassified drugs and specialized medical supplies clearly marked as Government of Uganda (GOU) property.
“He is currently in custody and faces charges related to the illegal possession of government property,” said Abiaz Rwamwiri, NDA spokesperson, during a briefing at the regional office in Mbarara.
The NDA noted that many of the closed outlets operated in unauthorized, substandard, and unlicensed premises, often employing unqualified personnel to handle and dispense powerful medications—a practice the Authority described as a “ticking time bomb” for public health.
“The presence of unlicensed outlets and unqualified dispensers poses grave risks, including treatment failure, drug misuse, and the dangerous acceleration of antimicrobial resistance,” Rwamwiri said.
He emphasized that NDA’s mandate is to ensure all Ugandans have access to safe, efficacious, and high-quality medicines.
“We cannot allow unscrupulous operators to jeopardize the lives of the public for profit,” he added.
Operators whose drugs were impounded have been instructed to report to the Southwestern Regional Office in Mbarara City for guidance on achieving compliance. NDA has also issued a stern warning to all unlicensed operators to cease activities immediately.
“We want to remind the public and stakeholders that the 2026 licensing cycle for both new applications and renewals is currently open,” Rwamwiri said.
The NDA urges citizens to prioritize their safety by purchasing medications only from licensed pharmacies and drug shops and encourages the public to report any suspicious activities or illegal drug-related crimes.