EU tips Medical Stores
THE European Union (EU) has implored Medical Stores Limited (MSL) to match investment with effective policy to ensure sustainable results.
EU Ambassador Alessandro Mariani said this during the signing of a grant agreement worth EUR 4.8 million (approximately K58, 000, 000), to support establishment of a central warehouse.
The EU delegation in Zambia and MSL signed a grant agreement to significantly enhance the company’s capacity and efficiency to store and distribute medicines.
He said the grant would contribute to Zambian people’s health needs.
Mr. Mariani said it was important for MSL to match investment with effective policy and institutional reforms, adequate management systems, as well as enhanced staff capacity and skills transfers.
He said besides construction of the warehouse, the two-year project would also support establishment of storage space for hazardous goods, and renovation of existing stores and surroundings.
“It is crucial that this important investment contributes to the improvement in availability and correct use of quality assured medicines.
“With EU financing under the EUR 18 million funded health systems strengthening programme we are supporting… we expect that our support will contribute to a fully-fledged and operational storage and distribution system at the central warehouse,” he said.
And MSL managing director Chikuta Mbewe said the grant agreement was a major milestone for the institution, an opportunity the company had awaited since 2013.
Mr. Mbewe said the agreement was an investment for the Zambian people and would contribute to national development.
“We recognise this huge investment for MSL as we have been grappling with managing the supplies on a daily basis, in the midst of the risks associated with wastage and diversion as we operate in scattered offices and warehouses.
“The signing of this agreement will contribute to improving lives of the Zambian people…”