MCAZ GOES HIGH-TECH TO FIGHT FAKE MEDS, Handheld scanners speed up detection of counterfeit drugs

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Check Point Desk

THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) is stepping up the fight against dangerous fake and substandard medicines by deploying cutting-edge handheld technology.

Using Raman and Near-Infrared (NIR) spectrometers, MCAZ can now verify medicine authenticity on the spot — without opening packaging or sending samples to a lab.
“These compact devices use laser and infrared light to create a unique chemical fingerprint and analyze internal drug structure,” MCAZ explained.

The results come back in minutes, allowing quick and reliable checks at pharmacies, clinics, and border posts.

By embracing these tools, MCAZ aims to ensure only safe, effective medicines reach Zimbabweans.