The Ministry of Health and Social Services has acknowledged that there is a limited supply of essential medicine such as paracetamol at some public health facilities.
Paracetamol is a common medication primarily used for pain relief and to reduce fever.
In a statement issued by health executive director Penda Ithindi on Tuesday, the ministry assured the public that measures are already under way to stabilise supply.
Ithindi said to cushion the impact, regional health facilities have been given increased budgets to procure essential items directly where needed.
Ithindi also said the ministry has intensified redistribution of medicine between regions to ensure available stock reaches facilities facing shortages.
He said paracetamol remains available in limited quantities nationwide, with a large consignment currently in transit and expected by mid-December.
“The ministry has successfully placed an order for three million units of paracetamol syrup, which is currently in transit to Namibia,” he said.
Once delivered, he said, it will be enough stock to meet national demand for the next year.
On HIV testing kits, the ministry confirmed that the national algorithm uses three types of kits: Wantai Colloidal Gold for initial screening, Unigold for confirmation, and Sure-Check as a tie-breaker.
Ithindi said nationally, approximately 2 400 units of the screening test remain available, which is enough for two to three months.
He said a larger order of more than 15 000 units has been placed for delivery within 12 weeks, while emergency procurement and redistribution continue in the interim.
The ministry also confirmed that Unigold test kits are sufficiently stocked for about six months following recent deliveries, with more supplies already being procured.
Ithindi said the ministry remains committed to uninterrupted access to essential medicines and diagnostic services while pursuing both short-term interventions and long-term procurement solutions.
“The ministry appreciates the public’s understanding and continued support as it works diligently to strengthen the national health supply chain,” he said.
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