MCAZ hosts WHO experts ahead of key global assessment

THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) this week hosted experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) for a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) observed audit, as the country intensifies preparations for a critical global regulatory assessment later this month.

The exercise forms part of groundwork ahead of the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) Maturity Level 4 (ML4) assessment scheduled for April 27 to May 1, 2026.

In a statement shared on its X platform, MCAZ described the observed audit as a significant milestone in strengthening Zimbabwe’s medicines regulatory systems.

“The observed audit is an important milestone in strengthening Zimbabwe’s regulatory systems, focusing on assessing the performance, competence and effectiveness of MCAZ inspectors in conducting GMP inspections in line with international standards,” said the authority.

MCAZ noted that the exercise provides an opportunity to identify institutional strengths and areas requiring further improvement as the country advances towards regulatory excellence.

The engagement underscores MCAZ’s commitment to ensuring that medicines and medical products available in Zimbabwe meet the highest standards of quality, safety and efficacy. It also supports broader regional efforts towards regulatory harmonisation and improved public health outcomes.

“The Authority appreciates the continued partnership with WHO and reaffirms its commitment to building a strong, transparent and internationally recognised regulatory system,” said MCAZ.