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The Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) has expressed concern over the Government’s failure to provide an update on the status of investigations into the 65 medical containers that were found in a private warehouse.
The 65 containers were reportedly discovered in a private warehousing facility under conditions unsuitable for the storage of medicines and medical supplies.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, MedRAP Executive Director, Liyoka Liyoka, expressed concern over the continued lack of clarity surrounding the matter, despite the Government having undertaken a forensic audit.
Liyoka noted that there had been no explicit public disclosure explaining how the medical containers—ordered by the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA)—ended up in private hands.
He further noted that the audit report did not clearly state whether the containers were retrieved, disposed of, or remained under investigation.
“Given that this matter involves public resources and directly affects the integrity of the national medicines supply chain, MedRAP considers this issue to be one of significant public interest,” Liyoka said.
He stated that transparency and accountability were essential to maintaining public confidence in the health system.
Liyoka called on the Ministry of Health to publicly clarify how the 65 medical containers came to be stored in a private warehousing facility.
He also urged the Ministry to state whether the containers had been retrieved, disposed of, or are still under investigation.
“Clearly outline what actions have been taken or will be taken in relation to this matter. Identify and hold accountable any individuals or entities found responsible, and publicly communicate any legal actions taken,” Liyoka demanded.
He warned that failure to address the matter decisively risked setting a negative precedent and may signal weaknesses in oversight and accountability mechanisms within the health supply system.
Liyoka said decisive action and full disclosure would not only strengthen institutional accountability but also help prevent the recurrence of similar incidents in the future.
“MedRAP therefore urges the Government to come out clearly and explicitly on this matter, in the interest of transparency, accountability, and the protection of public health,” he said.
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