Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Reporter
The medical sector faces potential prosecution over illegal disposal of medical waste, after reports emerged of medical items being dumped at Bulawayo City Council’s Richmond landfill site.
The waste reportedly includes used HIV and syphilis testing kits, syringes containing unknown liquids, blood-stained cotton swabs, surgical gloves, contaminated protective gear, and expired drugs.
Waste pickers at the site revealed that they frequently come across medical items while sorting through the dumped refuse.
“When a truck carrying medical waste arrives, drivers tell us not to open the black bags, but not everyone follows that instruction,” said an elderly woman who preferred to remain anonymous.
Another female waste picker shared that she was once accidentally pricked by a syringe.
Pharmaceutical Society of Zimbabwe president, Ms Vimbainashe Mukakati, emphasized that laws clearly regulate the disposal of medical waste, and any violations can lead to prosecution under statutes such as the Environmental Management Act and Statutory Instruments 10 of 2007, 12 of 2007, and 6 of 2007.
“These laws govern the licensing of incineration and landfill sites and set standards for waste disposal. Additionally, the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) follows World Health Organization guidelines to ensure best practices for disposing of specific medicines like antimicrobials,” Ms Mukakati explained.
She added that this framework complements the EMA Act and highlighted the special category of controlled substances regulated under the Dangerous Drugs Act. According to regulations, the destruction of expired or damaged controlled drugs requires approval from the Secretary for Health through MCAZ. The destruction must be witnessed, and a certificate issued detailing what was destroyed, quantities, responsible parties, and dates. This certificate is maintained by pharmacies and is subject to inspection during regulatory compliance checks.
“Failure to comply with these procedures may result in legal consequences. Generally, expired or damaged pharmacy goods are disposed of through incineration,” said Ms Mukakati.
