NDA Closes 109 Illegal Drug Outlets in Eastern Uganda, Seizes Medicines Worth Shs65m

What the report says

The National Drug Authority has shut down more than 109 illegal drug outlets in eastern Uganda during a week-long enforcement drive, according to Nile Post. The operation covered five districts — Iganga, Kamuli, Luuka, Bugiri and Jinja — and also led to the seizure of 260 boxes of assorted medicines valued at more than Shs65 million.

NDA spokesperson Abiaz Rwamwiri said in Kampala that the campaign was meant to stop the sale and distribution of medicines through unlicensed and non-compliant outlets. He warned that such practices can expose the public to poor-quality drugs, misuse of medicines, treatment failures and broader public health risks, including antimicrobial resistance.

The authority said the crackdown forms part of its mandate to regulate human and veterinary medicines and other healthcare products. Rwamwiri also pointed to a law enacted earlier this year that, as reported by Nile Post, introduces tougher penalties for illegal drug distribution, including prison terms, heavy fines or both.

The NDA urged people whose medicines were impounded to seek guidance from its South Eastern Regional Office in Jinja City and asked the public to buy medicines only from licensed pharmacies and drug shops. It also encouraged reporting of suspected violations to the regulator.