The National Drug Authority (NDA) took decisive action in the Busoga Sub-region, shutting down 166 illicit drug outlets due to their lack of licenses and unqualified staff. This operation also resulted in the seizure of 241 boxes of assorted medicines worth 80 million Shillings.
The comprehensive five-day operation covered various locations, including Jinja City, Jinja district, Bugiri, Iganga, Mayuge, and Namayingo. Samuel Kyomukama, NDA’s head of enforcement, emphasized that many of these offenders had been reluctant to register their drug shops for proper licensing.
He pointed out that the dispensing of drugs by untrained personnel posed a significant risk to both human and animal health.
Kyomukama urged the owners of the closed drug shops to follow the necessary registration and licensing procedures to resume their operations smoothly.
Zaid Mwondha, the South Eastern Regional Inspector of Drugs, highlighted NDA’s collaborative efforts with district inspectors of drugs to ensure the proper licensing of all drug outlets. This initiative aims to promote standardized drug consumption within local communities.
Mwondha disclosed that they had successfully registered 1,200 drug shops in the Busoga sub-region and Kayunga district, noting increased compliance. However, he expressed concerns about operators in rural areas who appeared complacent in updating their licenses.
In an effort to combat drug hawkers in markets and taxi parks, James Mubi, the Kiira Regional Police Spokesperson, confirmed their partnership with NDA. He also noted that NDA’s community sensitization campaigns had made the general public more vigilant about proper drug consumption practices.