The Ministry of Health in Muchinga Province says it has continued to record a significant milestone in healthcare service delivery, with essential drug availability in health facilities exceeding 80 percent.
Muchinga Province Minister, Njavwa Simutowe, confirmed the positive stock levels following an on-site inspection of the provincial and district bulk drug stores at Chinsali District Hospital, alongside Provincial Health Director, David Silweya.
Mr Simutowe said the inspection aims to verify the sustainability of the drug supply chain, which is a key priority for the United Party for National Development (UPND) government.
During the visit, Mr Simutowe inspected inventory levels for local hospitals and health centres, expressing satisfaction with the current stock levels and the state of preparedness in the province.
“I am delighted to report to the people of Muchinga and the nation at large that our drug stock levels have now surpassed the 80 percent benchmark,” said Mr Simutowe.
The Minister said this was a clear demonstration that the government was serious about ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all Zambians.
Reassuring the public on supply sustainability, Muchinga Provincial Health Director, David Silweya, confirmed that necessary measures are in place to ensure a consistent and adequate supply of essential medicines to meet local demand.
Dr Silweya added that other measures to ensure safety and reduce on drug theft were also in place through the installation of surveillance cameras among other.
The PHD added that the stock stays of drugs at the Bulk Drug Stores was the same with that of all health facilities in the districts across the province.
He said the drug availability levels in the province stands at over 80 percent.
Dr Silweya said the visit to the facility by the Minister, was encouraging as it will keep in ensuring that drug stick levels at all facilities was the same as the case is currently.
“We have enough drugs in all our facilities in the province, and it’s all thanks to the government,” he stated.
Dr Silweya noted that the inspection by the provincial Minister also highlighted that the province holds stock levels sufficient for over three months, showcasing remarkable progress in the health sector.
Ensuring a reliable, uninterrupted supply of essential drugs at all health facilities has remained a top agenda for the ruling government since 2021, with significant strides made in transforming the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Thanks for this. It will be good if such continue even in non election years
Wow! Milestone as election date draws near. Real or imaginary?
Time will tell?