The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill No. 14 of 2024
Date of Introduction: 16th July 2024
Ministry Responsible: Ministry of Health
Committee Responsible: Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services.
Deadline for Submission of Comments:
Contacts for submission of Comments: Email ZambiaLII; Email National Assembly or Visit the National Assembly Submission Portal
Issues addressed:
The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to amend the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency Act of 2019.
The Bill revises the definition of "medical supplies" to encompass a broader range of consumable products and materials used in health care services. This includes pharmaceuticals, non-pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, vaccines, therapeutic antisera, laboratory supplies, reagents, and dental materials.
The Bill introduces provisions that empower the Minister of Health to procure, store, and distribute medicines and medical supplies during a public health emergency. However, such actions must be approved by the Cabinet and are subject to the Public Procurement Act of 2020.
The Bill grants the Minister the authority to enter into performance contracts with the Board of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency and to issue general or specific directives regarding the Board's functions. These directives must be consistent with the provisions of the Act.
Read the Bill.