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STOP STEALING ARV’s

On January 31, 2025, Zambia was shaken by the theft of essential medicines at one of its most important healthcare institutions, the University Teaching Hospital (UTH). The apprehension of Kelvin Nyambe, a 29-year-old private security guard, who was caught stealing vital medicines, including antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Zambia’s healthcare system.

Nyambe was caught red-handed at the newly constructed Outpatient Department (OPD) building at UTH, where medicines are temporarily stored. He had packed his backpack with an alarming amount of pharmaceuticals, including 15 bottles of Panadol (Paracetamol), 25 bottles of Ibuprofen, and 24 bottles of Dolutegravir, critical ARVs that thousands of people living with HIV rely on for survival.

The theft, though an isolated incident, highlights a significant and growing threat to the availability of essential medicines in Zambia. It also brings to the forefront the hard work of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA), the government agency tasked with procuring, storing, and distributing essential medicines and medical supplies across the country. ZAMMSA works tirelessly to ensure that over 3,500 healthcare facilities, from rural clinics to urban hospitals, are adequately stocked with life-saving drugs and medical supplies. But incidents like this highlight the immense challenges the agency faces in securing these essential commodities, challenges that are not just logistical but also moral and ethical.

The theft of medicines, particularly Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, has severe and far-reaching consequences for public health. These medications are not mere commodities; they are life-saving treatments that many individuals depend on to manage chronic conditions and prevent illness or death. Let us briefly address the ongoing concerns surrounding ARV supply.

The public should be reassured that the country, through ZAMMSA the hub of medicines Hub, maintains a robust and consistent supply of ARVs to meet the needs of patients. Currently, ZAMMSA holds more than five months’ supply of first, second, and third-line ARV drugs, ensuring that all patients receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) continue to receive their necessary medications without disruption.

Considering recent concerns, ZAMMSA guarantees the public that there is no current or impending shortage of ARVs. We therefore encourage everyone to remain calm, as the supply and distribution of this essential medication is stable. We have a sustainable plan in place to ensure a continuous supply of ARVs and other essential medicines. The agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, is committed to maintaining this uninterrupted supply.

Healthcare facilities that may have encountered temporary shortages are urged to place emergency orders to ensure continued service to the community. The theft of ARVs is particularly damaging, as it directly impacts individuals living with HIV. Missing even one dose of ARVs can lead to treatment failure, drug resistance, and even death.

ZAMMSA relies on a meticulously planned distribution system to ensure that medicines reach their intended recipients. When even small quantities of critical medicines are stolen, it creates stockouts in healthcare facilities, making it harder for medical professionals to provide the care that patients need. The loss of these supplies also places undue pressure on ZAMMSA and other stakeholders who work tirelessly to ensure the healthcare system runs smoothly.

ZAMMSA has made great strides in its mission to ensure the availability of medicines with the current stock status hoovering around the World Health Organisation standard of 70%, yet the persistent threat of theft continues to undermine these efforts. The government has made significant investments in the procurement of medicines, and it is disheartening to see those efforts undone by those who choose to engage in criminal activity.

However, every theft erodes the progress that has been made. Every bottle of medicine stolen means one less life that can be saved. Each stolen package represents a missed opportunity for someone to receive the care they need, frustrating both government and community level health goals.

As ZAMMSA we are working closely with the Anti Drug Theft Task Force, a group of law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and government officials, to combat the growing trend of drug theft in our country. We have continued to implement more robust security protocols, including increased monitoring, tracking systems, and random checks to safeguard medical supplies. In addition, we are encouraging healthcare facilities to strengthen internal controls and to report any suspicious activities immediately. This collaborative effort seeks to strengthen security measures, enhance vigilance, and ensure that anyone caught engaging in such criminal activities is brought to justice.

While we are taking these significant steps to combat drug theft, the success of these efforts relies heavily on the involvement of the community. We implore all Zambians to continue being the vigilant eyes and ears that help protect our nation’s healthcare system. If you suspect any form of theft, whether in your community or at a healthcare facility, report it to the authorities immediately. Your involvement could save lives.

Communities play a vital role in the fight against theft and corruption. By acting as whistleblowers, you help secure medicines and contribute directly to the well-being of your neighbours, friends, and family. It is our collective responsibility to prevent harm to the most vulnerable caused by selfish actions.

The theft of medicines is a serious crime that undermines the efforts of the government, ZAMMSA, healthcare workers, and the public. It is not just an economic crime but a direct attack on public health and the lives of thousands who depend on life-saving medications. With public support, we can ensure our healthcare system remains strong, and essential medicines are available for all. Help ZAMMSA and yourself to protect Zambia’s healthcare by not stealing ARV’s and other essential medicines.

The Author is a Corporate Communications Officer

Zambia Medicines and medical Supplies Agency.