The Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) has banned the manufacture, importation, distribution and sale of a veterinary drug known as Hi-tet 120, following concerns over widespread counterfeiting and risks to livestock and public health.
Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority announced the decision on May 21, 2026, after investigations revealed that some unscrupulous traders were relabelling and repackaging the medicine before returning it to the market for illegal profit.
TMDA Director General, Dr. Adam Fimbo, said the drug contains Oxytetracycline Hydrochloride and has been commonly sold at higher prices compared to similar veterinary medicines with the same active ingredient.
He noted that the product has repeatedly been targeted for counterfeiting due to its simple packaging, which includes a brown bottle and a yellow box, making it easier for fake versions to circulate unnoticed.
“This has created room for dishonest traders to manipulate the product, putting livestock health at risk and exposing the public to broader safety concerns,” Dr. Fimbo said.
He added that the decision to impose a full ban was necessary due to the persistent nature of the problem.
“Because of continued cases of falsification, TMDA has decided to ban the manufacture, importation, distribution and sale of Hi-tet 120 with immediate effect. Any person or company found violating this directive will face legal action,” he said.
TMDA has urged livestock keepers, veterinarians and the general public to remain alert and avoid using the banned product, while also reporting any suspected illegal drug activities.
The authority encouraged citizens to report cases to the nearest police station or TMDA offices in Dodoma, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Arusha, Mbeya, Ruvuma, Tabora and Geita. Reports can also be submitted via info@tmda.go.tz or the toll-free number 0800110084.
TMDA said the ban is aimed at protecting livestock health, improving food safety and preventing economic losses among farmers who depend on animal production.
It further emphasized that combating fake and substandard veterinary medicines requires strong cooperation between regulators, health professionals, traders and the public.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that only safe, effective and approved medicines remain in circulation, warning all suppliers and distributors to fully comply with national pharmaceutical regulations.
