Health 17 July 2026 Nile Post
NDA Warns Ugandans: Government Drugs Are Free, Not for Sale
The National Drug Authority (NDA) has issued a strong warning to the public against purchasing government-supplied medicines, reiterating that these vital drugs are intended for free distribution. The alert follows the arrest of two individuals allegedly attempting to sell confiscated government drugs valued at approximately 22 million Ugandan shillings. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/357108/government-drugs-are-free-nda-tells-ugandans-after-arrests-over-illegal-sale
The National Drug Authority (NDA) is reminding Ugandans that medicines supplied by the government are provided free of charge and should never be purchased. This directive comes amid ongoing efforts to combat the illegal trade of essential medical supplies.
Recently, an operation by NDA officials led to the apprehension of two suspects found transporting government medicines valued at around 22 million Ugandan shillings. This incident underscores the persistent issue of diversion and illicit sale of free public health resources.
Fred Kabuye, NDA’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the arrest and highlighted that one of the suspects had a prior arrest for a similar offense, though previous charges were dropped due to lost evidence. Kabuye urged citizens to be vigilant and report any instances of government-supplied drugs being offered for sale.
“Government medicines are provided free of charge. We urge the public not to buy them and to report anyone found selling them,” Kabuye stated, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in safeguarding these resources.
In addition to this warning, the NDA also cautioned against self-medication, advising individuals to seek professional medical advice before obtaining or using any medication. Separately, another consignment of suspected smuggled sexual enhancement medicines was intercepted near the Mpondwe border, with officials warning of potential health risks associated with such unregulated products.