The Zambia Union of Nurses and Midwives Organisation (ZUNMO) has issued a call for urgent and decisive action to address and enhance the procurement systems for medicines and medical supplies in Zambia.

ZUNMO President Fray Michelo

ZUNMO President Fray Michelo expressed grave concern over the persistent challenges facing the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA), which have sometimes resulted in the expiration of drugs and a waste of taxpayers’ money.

“Over the years, substantial resources have been allocated to improve service delivery and strengthen health systems in Zambia,” said Mr. Michelo. “However, these efforts are being undermined by ongoing procurement issues that demand immediate resolution.”

Last year, ZUNMO welcomed ZAMMSA’s announcement that it was working on streamlining its procurement processes, including auditing its procurement systems. “This announcement gave hope for a positive turnaround in the procurement of medicines and medical supplies,” Mr. Michelo noted.

However, recent revelations have cast serious doubts on the integrity of the procurement system. “The diversion of 61 containers of medicines and medical supplies to a private facility, instead of the ZAMMSA warehouse, is deeply troubling,” said the ZUNMO President stated adding that, “This action, carried out without the authority or knowledge of the ZAMMSA Board and the Ministry of Health, raises numerous questions and concerns that demand immediate and thorough investigation.”

He emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the procurement process. “ZUNMO supports calls for a comprehensive investigation to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. It is imperative that those responsible are held accountable and that measures are put in place to prevent such occurrences in the future.”

“The health and well-being of Zambians depend on a reliable and efficient supply of medicines and medical supplies,”  Mr.Michelo stated. “ZUNMO stands firm in its commitment to advocate for the strengthening of procurement systems to ensure that these essential resources are managed with integrity and efficiency.”