NDA closes illegal drug outlets, impounds medicines in North Eastern Uganda.

In line with the National Drug Authority’s (NDA) mandate to protect and promote public health through effective regulation of human and animal medicines, as well as healthcare products, NDA has concluded a week-long compliance enforcement operation targeting illegal drug outlets in the North Eastern Region, covering Soroti, Ngora, Bukedea, Kaberamaido, and Moroto districts.

In the operations in the districts of Soroti, Ngora, Bukedea, Kaberamaido, and Moroto, 5 pharmacies and 20 drug outlets were closed, arrested 5 individuals were arrested for carrying on the business of a pharmacist without a license; with more than 200 boxes of medicines worth over UGX 100 million impounded.

“Over 20 drug outlets, including 5 pharmacies, were closed. Five individuals were arrested for carrying on the business of a pharmacist without a valid license, contrary to Section 14(3) of the National Drug Policy and Authority Act, Cap 198. In addition, more than 200 boxes of assorted medicines worth over UGX 100 million were impounded,” the statement reads in part.

Also contained in the statement released on 29^th August 2025, the National Drug Authority (NDA) cautions that operating without a license, which they say creates significant lapses in drug regulation, exposes the public to multiple risks, including drugs being dispensed and handled by unqualified personnel, poor storage of medicines, and irrational drug use, which can result in serious consequences such as antimicrobial resistance, treatment failures and adverse drug reactions, among others.

During a press conference on the operation. 

NDA has advised operators of outlets whose drugs were impounded to visit our North Eastern regional office in Soroti City for compliance guidance and to reclaim their drugs.

NDA also directs all unlicensed operators to immediately cease operations and comply with the legal requirements for selling drugs and healthcare products in Uganda. We also urge the public to buy drugs only from licensed pharmacies and drug shops, and to report any suspected drug-related crimes via our toll-free line 0800 101 999 or WhatsApp line 0740 002 070.