A senior Ugandan lawmaker has urged citizens to come together to safeguard government medicines, describing the theft of drugs as a national problem that can only be solved through unity.
Dr. Charles Ayume, a member of the Ugandan Parliament representing Koboko Municipality, Koboko district, a doctor, and chair of parliament’s health committee, said the theft of medicines was “not just an act against the government but against every Ugandan who depends on public health services.”
“I call upon every Ugandan—health workers, leaders, and families—to come together to protect our medicines. This is about preserving life, and life is our greatest treasure,” he said.
Uganda’s public health system serves more than 80 percent of the population. Yet persistent reports of missing drugs have damaged trust in hospitals and clinics. In some cases, patients are forced to buy medicines from private outlets even though the drugs are supposed to be free in government facilities.
Authorities have attempted reforms, including the introduction of embossed labels, the rollout of a digitalized supply chain, and community awareness campaigns. But Ayume believes communities must be part of the solution. “When we unite, we can ensure that no child, no mother, no patient is left without care,” he said.
His comments come at a time when malaria remains Uganda’s leading killer disease, accounting for over 16,000 deaths annually, according to the Ministry of Health. Ayume stressed that ensuring medicines reach their intended destinations could dramatically reduce preventable deaths.
