Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Stakeholders from The Gambia’s health sector have on Wednesday launched the National Plan for the Control of Substandard and Falsified Medicinal Products. The initiative aims to safeguard public health by addressing the pressing issue of counterfeit and substandard drugs, which pose a global challenge to healthcare systems.

The plan, spearheaded by the Medicines Control Agency (MCA) and developed in collaboration with key actors across the health sector, seeks to establish robust frameworks for the prevention, timely detection, and swift response to the circulation of falsified medicines.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Amadou Camara, the chairperson of the National Assembly Select Committee on Health, emphasized the universal nature of the problem, noting that even the most advanced regulatory bodies face challenges in combating counterfeit pharmaceuticals.

“This plan is critical for protecting the people of The Gambia. Substandard and falsified medicinal products are not just a national issue but a global problem. By implementing this plan, we aim to ensure the availability of safe, effective, and high-quality medicines for our population,” Hon. Camara stated.

The launch aligns with the government’s National Health Policy 2021-2030, which underscores equitable access to essential healthcare services, including safe and effective medication. The policy also complements the country’s broader development objectives by prioritizing the regulation of the pharmaceutical sector to boost confidence in the healthcare system.

Officials highlighted that the implementation of the plan comes at a crucial time, as the MCA intensifies efforts to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3 Standards, a benchmark for regulatory excellence.

These efforts include measures to prevent the entry of counterfeit drugs, ensuring proper labeling and packaging, and enhancing the country’s capacity for swift intervention when falsified medicines are detected.

The plan’s development was a collaborative process, vetted by stakeholders from various sectors of the healthcare ecosystem. It includes a series of actionable steps designed to strengthen the country’s pharmaceutical regulations and protect the population from the health risks associated with counterfeit drugs.

The circulation of substandard and falsified medicines continues to pose a substantial threat to public health worldwide, leading to ineffective treatment, adverse health outcomes, and a decline in public trust in healthcare systems.

Officials at the launch stressed that The Gambia’s proactive approach serves as a model for tackling this challenge in the region.

“Patients lose confidence in the healthcare system when treatments fail due to substandard medicines. This plan provides a comprehensive guide to ensure that such issues are effectively addressed,” remarked Essa Marena, the acting executive director, MCA.

The successful implementation of the National Plan will not only improve health outcomes but also solidify public trust in The Gambia’s healthcare system, making quality healthcare more accessible and reliable for all.