ZAMMSA Procures Vital Medicines and Medical Supplies from Egypt to Address Shortages
Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) has welcomed the arrival of the first batch of essential medicines and medical supplies procured from the Arab Republic of Egypt.
Dr. Anna Chifungula, Chairperson of the ZAMMSA Board, made this announcement during a significant event attended by various dignitaries, government officials, and media representatives.
In August, ZAMMSA entered into a Government to Government Bulk Procurement Agreement with the Unified Procurement Authority (UPA) of Egypt for the supply and delivery of assorted medicines and medical supplies.
The contract is valued at $24 million, and the first shipment received comprises 85 different medicines and medical equipment. An additional eight items are set to arrive in Zambia via sea freight later this week, including controlled drugs.
The remaining consignments, to be shipped by sea, will reach Zambia over the next two months.
Dr. Chifungula praised UPA’s commitment to deliver all the ordered items in the contract by the end of this year, despite the contract stipulating a shipment deadline in March 2024.
This significant procurement underscores ZAMMSA’s dedication to fulfilling the Zambian government’s promise to ensure equitable access to quality and safe medicines and medical supplies for all citizens.
Addressing stock shortages of essential medical items within the public health supply chain is a top priority for ZAMMSA.
The recent bulk procurement from Egypt complements existing procurements from partners like Missionpharma, UN agencies such as UNICEF, UNFPA, and the Global Fund, as well as ongoing procurements through local suppliers and manufacturers.
Dr. Chifungula expressed her gratitude to the Zambian government, the Ministry of Health, cooperating partners, and stakeholders for their continuous support in securing essential health commodities for the nation. She reaffirmed ZAMMSA’s commitment to tackling stock imbalances and ensuring the availability of vital medicines and medical supplies for the people of Zambia.
