The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, has called on pharmacists across the country to prioritize public education on the correct use of medicines, warning against the growing threat of drug misuse.
Speaking during the opening of the Scientific Symposium and Annual General Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Tanzania at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC), Dr. Mpango said:
“We have witnessed an alarming trend of drug misuse among citizens. People are using medications without prescriptions, abusing sleeping pills as intoxicants, fattening livestock with drugs, and even mixing pharmaceuticals into local brews. This must stop,” he emphasized.
Dr. Mpango urged pharmacists to uphold the highest ethical standards and to remain committed to their professional oath.
“All pharmacy professionals must serve with integrity, discipline, and respect for human life. I am directing the Pharmacy Council to intensify oversight to ensure our citizens receive quality pharmaceutical services,” he stated.
He also challenged academic institutions to take a central role in producing skilled and ethical pharmacy graduates.
“Universities and training colleges must embed ethics in their curricula. We want graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also trustworthy and professional,” Dr. Mpango added.
The Vice President did not shy away from addressing malpractice in the profession, particularly theft and diversion of medicines from public to private pharmacies.
“It is unacceptable that essential medicines are disappearing from public health centers, only to be found in privately owned pharmacies. Those engaging in such unethical conduct must stop immediately. I urge relevant authorities to take firm disciplinary and legal action against those involved,” he warned.
On the rollout of the Universal Health Insurance plan, Dr. Mpango called on pharmacists to support the initiative by ensuring the availability of safe and high-quality medicines.
“The goal is simple every Tanzanian should have access to the medicines they need without facing financial barriers. Pharmacists are key to making this a reality,” he said.
The Vice President further emphasized the role of research in advancing the pharmaceutical sector. He called on the Ministry of Health, the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), the Council for Traditional and Alternative Medicine, and the Pharmaceutical Society of Tanzania to work together in promoting scientific exploration of traditional medicinal plants.
“Africa is rich with natural remedies known to our communities. Let us develop these resources using modern science and technology to find effective solutions to today’s health challenges,” he said.
He also proposed that Local Government Authorities allocate land for botanical gardens dedicated to medicinal plants to support pharmaceutical research.
“We need designated areas to preserve and cultivate medicinal plants. This will ease access for researchers and help sustain traditional knowledge,” he advised.
Dr. Mpango reaffirmed the government's recognition and appreciation of pharmacists' contributions to healthcare.
“Pharmacists play a vital role in our health system. The government will continue to work closely with them to improve access to quality medicines and health services across the country,” he assured.
As the country approaches the 2025 General Election, Dr. Mpango appealed to pharmacists to support peace-building efforts.
“Without peace, no professional or national activity can thrive. I urge pharmacists and all professionals to be ambassadors of peace,” he urged.
Representing the Minister of Health, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Grace Magembe highlighted the government's response to global funding shifts in the health sector.
“The Sixth Phase Government has allocated TZS 141.98 billion to bridge funding gaps in commodities for malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and essential maternal and child medicines. This is a strong signal of our commitment to healthcare,” she said.
Dr. Magembe reaffirmed the sector’s commitment to transparency and meeting public expectations.
“We will continue to operate with integrity and deliver health services that respond to the real needs of Tanzanians,” she declared.
Pharmaceutical Society of Tanzania President Mr. Fadhil Hezekiah praised the government’s efforts in attracting investment in the health sector, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing and private healthcare facilities.
“We commend the government for creating a favorable environment for investors. We are beginning to see progress in areas such as local pharmaceutical production and medical tourism,” he said.
He also proposed reforms to strengthen pharmacy services across all levels of the health system.
“We ask the Ministry of Health and the Pharmacy Council to make it mandatory for all essential medicine outlets to have qualified pharmacists. Additionally, we recommend establishing dedicated pharmaceutical directorates in national, zonal, and regional hospitals to streamline services,” he noted.
The three-day conference, which runs from June 4 to June 6, 2025, is being held under the theme:
“Pharmacy at the Heart of Health for All: Innovation, Investment, and Inclusive Healthcare under Transformative Leadership.”
