The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) has commenced the distribution of the K700 million worth of medicines and medical supplies procured through the recently conducted Mop-up Exercise to hospitals across the country.
Last month, ZAMMSA awarded contracts worth K700 million to 24 local suppliers for the supply and delivery of health commodities through a Mop-up Exercise, a move aimed to immediately address the stock imbalances in hospitals offering secondary healthcare services.
“With the arrival of the life-saving commodities, ZAMMSA has put in place measures that will ensure quick delivery of commodities to Tertiary and Level One hospitals within 4 weeks,” says ZAMMSA Senior Manager-Corporate Communications Bradley Chingobe.
He said this will mitigate the stock imbalances at Tertiary service delivery points.
“So far, six out of the 14 targeted tertiary health facilities in Lusaka province have since received their allocation, representing 43% while the remaining will receive commodities within this week,” said Mr. Chingobe.
He said the stock for facilities located in other provinces is currently being sent to the respective regional hubs for easy and quick distribution.
Mr. Chingobe said the distribution of stock from the Mop-up Exercise is being done parallel to the routine orders and last mile distribution of health commodities such as Health Center Kits to facilities as per the ZAMMSA Distribution Schedule.
He said this will allow seamless and an uninterrupted supply of life-saving commodities to communities, thereby promoting equitable and easy access to quality healthcare services for the people.
“ZAMMSA remains fully committed to Vision of being a world class supply chain of essential medicines and medical supplies for a healthy and productive Zambia,” said Mr. Chingobe.
