US$3 million ARVs expire while at NatPharm warehouses

Parliament has raised alarm over reports that antiretroviral (ARV) medicines worth US$3 million expired while stored at NatPharm warehouses, exposing critical gaps in the country's pharmaceutical supply chain.

Decent Bajila, Acting Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health and Child Care, said the development points to serious weaknesses in stock management and distribution systems.

He warned that the loss of life-saving medication not only undermines public health efforts but also reflects inefficiencies that require urgent attention.

Bajila called for accountability from those responsible and urged authorities to implement reforms to prevent a recurrence, stressing the need for improved inventory controls, timely distribution and stronger oversight mechanisms within the health sector.

The incident raises concerns about access to essential medicines for patients reliant on ARVs, as well as the broader management of medical supplies in Zimbabwe's public health system.