The finding is alarming: most pharmacies in Kalemie do not meet the required standards. This is what Tanganyika’s provincial health minister, Bob Morisho, deplored during a field visit. He witnessed “horrible things”: dirty premises, pharmaceutical products mixed with breads and biscuits, total confusion.
But that’s not all, the minister also noticed that medicines were poorly stored, even touching the roofs of pharmacies. He also noted the presence of rodents and cockroaches, highlighting the total disorder in these health establishments.
These non-compliant pharmacies are a real threat to the population. Indeed, a poorly stored or poorly prescribed medication can become a real poison. The minister even discovered several expired medicines that the sellers continued to distribute to the population.
Faced with this worrying situation, Bob Morisho asks that the pharmacist inspector be able to request the support of the prosecution to proceed with the sealing of pharmacies which do not respect the standards.
It is essential to guarantee the quality and safety of medicines delivered to the population. The authorities must take strict measures to put an end to these dangerous practices and ensure access to health care in optimal conditions.
The health of the people of Kalemie and Tanganyika is at stake, so urgent action is needed to remedy this situation. The population deserves pharmacies that meet standards and guarantee quality care.