Government Appoints New Board to Lead National Drug and Health Products Authority

The Ugandan government has announced the appointment of a new Board of Directors to oversee the newly established National Drug and Health Products Authority (NDHPA). The leadership announcement follows the recent enactment of the National Drug and Health Products Authority Act, 2026, which replaces the former National Drug Authority established back in 1993.

Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Ms Justine Kasule Lumumba, revealed the appointments following a cabinet meeting at State House, Entebbe. Dr Christine Kirunga Tashobya has been named to head the board as chairperson. Dr Tashobya brings extensive public health expertise to the role, boasting a career spanning 35 years in health systems governance.

The newly formed board includes several other professionals representing various specialized fields. Dr Jerome Mpaata Owagage represents the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda and health law, while Eng Tadeo Byabagambi represents biomedical engineering and medical devices. Other appointed members include Ms Margret Nalwoga for financial management, Ms Catherine Adok for human rights and law, Dr Francis Omujal for traditional medicine, and Mr Gadaffi Nassur representing youth and consumer interests.

The board members will serve an initial four-year term, with eligibility for reappointment for one additional term. Authorities have tasked the newly minted leadership with safeguarding public health, ensuring that only safe and effective medicines reach the market, and protecting citizens from substandard or falsified products.

Operating as an independent body corporate, the NDHPA takes over health regulatory duties as previous administrative chapters face scrutiny. Earlier in the year, the Inspectorate of Government launched inquiries into alleged irregularities concerning the former board led by Dr Medard Bitekyerezo. The incoming leadership now faces the critical mandate of reorganizing the regulatory framework and restoring governance confidence.

Read the full story on the Daily Monitor.