The Sunday Mail
Tanyaradzwa Rusike
THE National Pharmaceutical Company (Natpharm) has approached Treasury to seek more funds to boost drug stocks.
Natpharm acting chief executive officer Mr Rolland Mlalazi said they are seeking fresh funds from Government. In March, the company received $25 million from Treasury. However, the funds have since been exhausted.
Natpharm is mandated to ensure the safe, effective and affordable procurement, storage and distribution of drugs and medical supplies to public health facilities.
Mr Mlalazi said: “Based on the stock position as at the end of September 2019, the estimated availability of essential medicines stands at 55 percent. Stock should be around 80 percent.
“Treasury is mobilising additional resources to fill in the gaps so that we can sustain stocks for longer periods.”
Mr Mlalazi said the Ministry of Health and Childcare is aiming to promote the local manufacturing of drugs.
Pharmaceutical Society of Zimbabwe president Mr Portifa Mwendera said foreign currency shortages were affecting drug imports.
He said every week, at least US$4 million is required for the procurement of medicines and raw materials, which are used in the production of some of the drugs locally.
NatPharm was created through an Act of Parliament in 2000. The company seeks to improve access to essential medicines. It also supplies medical commodities at competitive prices.
