Online Reporter
Emmanuel Kafe
THE Government has taken delivery of 14 shipping containers stocked with essential medicines and medical sundries, marking a significant step in its ongoing efforts to address gaps and stabilise drug availability in public hospitals.
The consignment, delivered last week, is part of a broader strategy to improve healthcare services and ensure a steady supply of vital medicines. Generally, a 20-foot shipping container has an estimated payload of approximately 26 tonnes. At the end of 2024, stock levels in public health facilities stood at just 49 percent — far below the required threshold. Zimbabwe requires approximately US$17 million worth of medicines each month to meet demand.This year, the Government has committed US$44 million towards the procurement of medicines to tackle persistent supply challenges.
Speaking in Parliament last week, Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora said the 14-container shipment is part of efforts to reduce procurement delays caused by late disbursement of funds by Treasury.
“We ordered these medicines last December, but sourcing large quantities often takes time due to manufacturing and supply chain challenges,” he said.
“We are grateful for the support from the Ministry of Finance, despite the delays in disbursements last time.”
He said last year’s 49 percent stock level was inadequate, adding that efforts are underway to improve the availability of medicines to 60 percent this year.
“We are not proud of the 49 percent stock level recorded last year, but we are working tirelessly to improve this figure,” he continued.
“Our goal is to reach 60 percent and ensure that no patient is turned away due to a lack of medicines.We have also intensified engagements with the Ministry of Finance to ensure timely release of funds for medicine procurement. We are making every effort to prioritise the health of our people.
“This includes not only procuring medicines but also addressing the underlying challenges in the healthcare system.”
Public health expert Dr Amon Pakwera welcomed the latest delivery.
“While the delivery of 14 containers is a positive development, the Government must ensure consistent funding and streamline procurement processes to avoid stockouts in the future.”
Recent investments in the health sector have helped improve medicine availability in public health institutions, from 22 percent in 2023 to around 50 percent in 2024.
The increase has been attributed to major supply contracts with pharmaceutical companies such as Intrapharma (US$24 million) and Clean Planet (US$17 million).
In 2023, the Government allocated US$52 million towards medicine procurement.
Following last week’s job action by some members of staff at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, the Government pledged to address workers’ grievances, including unavailability of medicines and related sundries, as well as remuneration.
