The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) of Kenya and the National Drug Authority (NDA) of Uganda have announced a groundbreaking bilateral initiative to combat the illicit trade of health products.
This collaborative effort, dubbed Operation African Star, involves international participation from agencies in the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, alongside multinational organizations and the regulated pharmaceutical industry.
Over four days, joint enforcement teams targeted and examined violative shipments of health products via postal and air cargo in both countries.
The operation also included reciprocal training sessions. The initiative aims to enhance health outcomes by understanding and disrupting the illicit trade in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and equipment across Africa.
Key stakeholders in Africa, the international community, and private industry participated in the operation.
Kenya’s multi-agency approach involved the Kenya Revenue Authority, Immigration Services, Anti-Narcotics, National Intelligence Service, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Kenya Airports Authority, Communication Authority, and the Anti-Counterfeit Authority.
Uganda’s whole-of-government approach included the Uganda Revenue Authority, Civil Aviation Authority, and specialized police units.
International counterpart agencies, such as the European Anti-Fraud Office and the United States Food and Drug Administration, contributed valuable expertise.
Joint enforcement teams uncovered shipments stored and shipped outside approved conditions, prescription medicines lacking valid prescriptions, and dietary supplements with undeclared active ingredients.
Participants received training on emerging public health threats and observed host countries’ regulatory and legal processes in action. The regulated industry provided critical information on encountered products.
Dr. Fred Siyoi, CEO of PPB, emphasized the global public health threat posed by illicit health products and technologies, highlighting the need for collaboration to ensure safety and efficacy.
Dr. Medard Bitekyerezo, Chairman of NDA, underscored the importance of multilateral initiatives like Operation African Star in developing best practices and targeting dangerous products.
The operation led to criminal investigations, seizures of violative products, and the exchange of actionable intelligence. Efforts are underway to alert consumers about the dangers of illicit medicines and to plan follow-up enforcement actions and training opportunities.
