Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, challenged the new board of the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and its members to uphold the highest standards of transparency, efficiency and accountability in regulating medicines and health products in the country.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Harare on Friday, Dr Mombeshora said the board assumes office at a critical time when the country is pursuing the attainment of universal health coverage and strengthening healthcare delivery systems.
“The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health through the regulation of medicines, medical devices and allied health products.
The work of this board is therefore of immense national importance because the health and well-being of our citizens depend on a regulatory system that is efficient, transparent and responsive,” said Dr Mombeshora.
He said the Government expects the new board to enhance public confidence in the country’s medicines regulatory framework while ensuring that only safe, effective and quality products reach the market.
“I am confident that the collective expertise and experience of the board members will help transform MCAZ into a model institution that responds effectively to the evolving needs of the healthcare sector.
Your responsibility is to provide sound governance, strategic direction and oversight that will strengthen the authority’s performance,” he added.
Dr Mombeshora urged the board to embrace innovation and international best practices in medicines regulation, adding that regulatory institutions must continuously adapt to emerging health challenges and technological developments.
“The public expects timely decisions, professionalism and integrity from regulatory authorities. I therefore encourage you to foster a culture of accountability, transparency and service excellence in all your operations. Let your decisions be guided by the public interest and the need to protect the health of Zimbabweans.
I call on the board to work closely with Government, healthcare professionals, industry stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Zimbabwe’s pharmaceutical regulatory environment,” Minister Mombeshora added.
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe is responsible for regulating medicines, medical devices and related health products to ensure their safety, quality and efficacy before they are made available to the public.
