Medicines Authority warns against fake 'approvals'

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has issued a public warning after uncovering cases of companies falsely claiming official approval for their products by displaying the regulator's logo.

MCAZ director general Richard Rukwata said the practice is illegal, deliberately misleading, and poses a significant public health risk.

"The Authority has noted with serious concern a growing trend in which individuals and companies falsely display the MCAZ logo and make misleading claims that their products are 'approved', 'certified' or 'registered' by MCAZ, without written authorisation," Rukwata said.

The warning follows the confiscation of a product called Hubaba, seized by MCAZ inspectors in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) after a tip-off. The product was manufactured and distributed by 3 Summer Investments.

Rukwata emphasized that the use of the MCAZ logo is strictly controlled and requires formal written permission. "Any use outside this framework constitutes an offence under the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act and related laws and exposes offenders to prosecution and seizure of products," he said.

MCAZ warned that misuse of its identity undermines regulatory safeguards and could expose consumers to unsafe, substandard, or falsified medicines.

Members of the public are urged to verify the registration status of medicines and allied substances through MCAZ's online register and official platforms and to report any suspected misuse of the regulator's name or logo.

"MCAZ will not hesitate to take firm enforcement action against any person or entity found misusing its brand, name, logo or regulatory authority," Rukwata said.