The National Drug Authority (NDA) has closed 82 illegal drug outlets and seized medicines worth over UGX 150 million during a week-long enforcement operation in Western Uganda. The crackdown covered the districts of Kassanda, Mubende, Kabarole, and Mityana.
According to NDA, the operation led to the impounding of more than 165 boxes of assorted medicines. Authorities also arrested an operator of an unlicensed veterinary pharmacy in Fort Portal City, who now faces charges of carrying on the business of a pharmacist without a valid license and unlawful possession of classified drugs.
NDA warned that unlicensed drug outlets expose the public to serious risks, including treatment failure and antimicrobial resistance. “Operating without a license exposes people to unqualified personnel handling medicines, leading to irrational drug use,” the authority stated.
The regulator urged all operators whose drugs were impounded to seek compliance guidance from NDA’s Western regional office in Hoima City. It further directed unlicensed operators to stop operations immediately and follow legal procedures before resuming business.
NDA encouraged the public to purchase medicines only from licensed outlets and to report suspected drug-related crimes. The authority added that as the 2025 licensing cycle closes, the 2026 cycle will open in October, urging operators to prepare in advance.
