All would attest to the fact that Africa has been a target when it comes to proliferation of sub-standard and falsified medicines compared to any continent. The syndicates, who are raking millions in this booming enterprise, have little or no regards for the health and wellbeing of millions of consumers.
This reminds about the need for all to join hands fight against substandard and falsified medicines is everyone’s business. The discovery of a single dose of sub-standard or falsified medicine, many experts believe, signals that the country’s supply chain is being contaminated.
Few months ago, the Medicines Control Agency (MCA) and stakeholders led a mass disposal exercise of a large quantity of seized medical and expired products illegally imported or found within illegal premises. The move was part of their unrelenting crackdown against sub-standard and falsified medical products in the country.
We commend the officials for their foresight and unrelenting stance in tackling this growing unfriendly business in the country.
With advances made in the areas of science and technology, there should be no room for complacency. As a country, we cannot allow the country to be a dumping for all types of substandard and falsified medical substances. This will not only retard the country’s development process, but will also lead to more complication just the AKI case.
Let’s bear in mind that the Government of The Gambia has signed series of commitment towards providing Universal Health Coverage for all the people living in the country by 2030. And this ambitious target will be far-fetch reality, as the country cannot achieve any progress in the absence of availability of quality and essential medicines.
Another issue of concern is the high cost of essential medical drugs in the country. This has not only forced people from disadvantaged background, but leaves much to be desired as a country and in accessing quality health care services. It is also true that some of the deaths occurring in our hospital are preventable deaths.
On Wednesday, the Gambian leader, President Barrow during an audience with a delegation from the Pharmacy Association of The Gambia, the Medicine Control Agency (MCA), and the Ministry of Health, reminded that shortage of medicines should not justify pharmacies increasing their prices.
His government, he added, has a social contract to ensure the country's best interests, further advising all stakeholders to work together to ensure citizens' safety by providing safe, affordable, and accessible medicines.
We commend President Barrow for that bold statement. Issues relating to health and well-being of people should not be taken lightly.
We have a nation to build as patriotic citizens. Let’s also remember that working in isolation will only derail our progress. Thus, it important we join forces to strengthen the country’s health system.