Zambia and Zimbabwe Strengthen Medical Product Regulation with New MoU
The Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) and the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost cooperation in regulating medical products between the two countries.
This partnership aims to improve public health and ensure access to safe, quality medicines for citizens of both nations.
The agreement focuses on collaboration in several key areas, including detecting substandard and falsified medicines, implementing track-and-trace systems, and advancing technologies such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, vaccine production, and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacturing.
It also promotes joint efforts in information sharing, capacity building, and participation in international forums.
A critical component of the MoU is the mutual recognition of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) inspections, which will facilitate pharmaceutical industry investment and regulatory efficiency across both countries.
Speaking on the MoU’s importance, MCAZ Director-General Richard T Rukwata said, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in regional regulatory convergence. By working together, ZAMRA and MCAZ will strengthen the fight against substandard and falsified medical products and promote public health and safety.”
ZAMRA Director-General Makomani Siyanga emphasized, “This partnership demonstrates our commitment to ensuring only safe, effective, and quality-assured medical products are available in our markets. It is a proactive step toward harmonization and innovation in our regulatory systems.”
