In a landmark collaborative effort, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) of Kenya and the National Drug Authority (NDA) of Uganda have initiated a joint operation aimed at combating the illicit trade of health products. Named Operation African Star, this bilateral initiative marks a significant step towards safeguarding public health across the region.
Scope and Participants
Operation African Star involved a comprehensive approach with international participation from agencies in the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, and multinational organizations alongside the regulated pharmaceutical industry. Over four days, joint enforcement teams meticulously targeted and scrutinized shipments of health products via postal and air cargo in both Kenya and Uganda.
Multi-Agency Coordination
In Kenya, the operation was executed through a multi-agency approach, leveraging the resources and expertise of various government bodies including the Kenya Revenue Authority, Immigration Services, Anti-Narcotics Unit, National Intelligence Service, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Kenya Airports Authority, Communication Authority, and the Anti-Counterfeit Authority. This coordinated effort underscored Kenya’s commitment to tackling the illicit trade of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
Similarly, Uganda employed a whole-of-government strategy, involving the Uganda Revenue Authority, Civil Aviation Authority, and specialized police units to ensure comprehensive oversight and enforcement capabilities.
Uncovering Violations and Training Initiatives
During Operation African Star, enforcement teams uncovered several violations, including shipments stored improperly, prescription medicines lacking valid prescriptions, and dietary supplements containing undeclared active ingredients. Participants received training on emerging public health threats and observed regulatory processes in action, facilitated by host countries’ regulatory authorities.
Insights and Leadership
Dr. Fred Siyoi, CEO of PPB, emphasized the global threat posed by illicit health products and stressed the necessity of collaborative efforts to ensure safety and efficacy in healthcare. Dr. Medard Bitekyerezo, Chairman of NDA, highlighted the importance of multilateral initiatives like Operation African Star in developing best practices and effectively targeting dangerous products that threaten public health.
Results and Future Actions
The operation resulted in criminal investigations, seizures of violative products, and the exchange of actionable intelligence between participating agencies. Efforts are now underway to raise awareness among consumers about the dangers associated with illicit medicines. Plans for follow-up enforcement actions and additional training opportunities are being developed to further strengthen regulatory frameworks and enhance enforcement capabilities in both Kenya and Uganda.
Operation African Star stands as a testament to the commitment of Kenya and Uganda, supported by international partners, to combat the illicit trade of health products and safeguard public health. By fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and implementing robust enforcement measures, both countries aim to mitigate the risks posed by illicit pharmaceuticals and ensure that only safe and regulated health products reach consumers. Moving forward, initiatives like Operation African Star are crucial in promoting health security and advancing regional health governance across Africa.
