Zimbabwe, Zambia Unite to Fight Fake Drugs

Rutendo Mazhindu - ZimNow Reporter

The Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) and the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening regulatory cooperation in the fight against substandard and falsified medicines across both countries.

The agreement, signed on June 17, 2025, outlines a five-year strategic partnership focusing on key areas such as detection of falsified medicines, track and trace systems, nanotechnology and biotechnology, vaccine and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) production, and joint regulatory innovations.

MCAZ Director General, Richard T. Rukwata, said the MoU marked a “significant milestone in regional regulatory convergence,” adding that, “By working together, ZAMRA and MCAZ will leverage each other’s expertise and resources to strengthen the fight against substandard and falsified medical products, and promote public health and safety in both nations.”

According to both countries, the MoU sets up a comprehensive framework for joint participation in international fora, information sharing, capacity building, mutual recognition of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) inspections, and efforts to attract pharmaceutical investments.

ZAMRA Director General, Makomani Siyanga, said the collaboration represents “a proactive step toward harmonization, efficiency, and innovation in our regulatory systems.”

“This partnership underscores our shared commitment to ensuring that only safe, effective, and quality-assured medical products are accessible in our respective markets,” he said.

The MoU is valid for five years and may be renewed upon mutual consent.

Zambia and Zimbabwe pledged to promote regulatory excellence and improve access to quality-assured medicines as part of a broader push to achieve Universal Health Coverage in the region.