Health authorities in Uganda have raised concern over the growing trend of self-medication, warning that the misuse of medicines, especially antibiotics, is accelerating drug resistance and undermining treatment outcomes.
Dr. Sarah Taratwebirwe, a pharmacist at the Ministry of Health Uganda, said many people take medication without proper diagnosis, often treating the wrong conditions.
“You may take the drugs wrongly or treat what is not right, and eventually the medicines stop working. This leads to resistance,” she said.
She noted that common illnesses such as malaria, cough, and flu are frequently self-treated, with many people inappropriately using antibiotics worsening the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
Health experts are now urging the public to adopt a “test and treat” approach, particularly for malaria, where accurate diagnosis is critical before taking medication.
Emmanuel Ainebyoona, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of seeking professional medical care.
“We encourage everyone to seek medical attention from qualified personnel instead of self-medicating,” he said, adding that misuse of drugs has already rendered some treatments less effective.
Officials also raised concern about counterfeit and substandard medicines circulating on the market, warning that such products further endanger public health.
The National Drug Authority Uganda continues to regulate and monitor medicines through drug registration and pharmacovigilance systems to ensure that only safe, approved drugs reach the public.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant by checking expiry dates, verifying medicines through official channels, and purchasing drugs only from licensed pharmacies. They also encouraged reporting of any adverse drug reactions.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s pharmaceutical sector is registering steady growth, with increased local manufacturing of medicines and medical supplies.
Dr. Ezra Muhumuza from the Uganda Manufacturers Association said the country now produces a significant share of generic medicines, as well as essential supplies such as syringes, gloves, and hospital equipment—items that were previously imported.
He attributed the progress to stronger collaboration, technology transfer, and industry-focused exhibitions that bring together local and international manufacturers.
In a related development, the Ministry of Health has announced that the Uganda Pharma and Healthcare Expo & Dialogue 2026 will take place from March 26 to 28 at the UMA Show Grounds.
The Expo, held under the theme “Strengthening Access, Quality, and Sustainability in Healthcare for All,” is expected to bring together stakeholders from across the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors to promote innovation, partnerships, and investment.
The event will feature policy discussions, exhibitions, and knowledge-sharing sessions focusing on pharmaceutical manufacturing, digital health, supply chains, regulatory frameworks, and healthcare financing.
The Ministry has called on healthcare professionals, private sector players, academic institutions, development partners, and the general public to participate.
