LIFE-SAVING DRUGS WORTH $45m LOCKED UP DUE TO IMPORT DUTIES
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Health supplies valued at $45 million have been held up at the port since August 2023 due to theinability of importers to cover the import duties.
Health supplies valued at $45 million and procured using funds allocated by the Global Fund to the nation have been held up at the port since August 2023 due to the inability of importers to cover the import duties. This delay is occurring at a critical juncture, coinciding with a shortage of essential commodities such as malaria Rapid Diagnostic Testkits (RDTs), Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs), and Antiretrovirals (ARVs). The mentioned amount is part of a larger sum of $234 million disbursed by the Global Fund to bolster the country's efforts in combating HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria within the period spanning 2023 to 2025.
According to a recent statement released by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) in Accra, the delay in clearing the supplies is attributed to the Global Fund's policy, which does not cover taxes and levies imposed at the ports. This revelation underscores the severity of the situation, as it puts the health and well-being of numerous Ghanaians at risk, particularly those grappling with HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria.
Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh, the President of PSGH, emphasized the urgent need for the government to intervene and expedite the clearance of these life-saving drugs. He also raised concerns about the Ministry of Health's alleged failure to reimburse an ineligible expense of $844,046 to the Global Fund, which could potentially result in a deduction of $1.6 million from the current grant cycle. Such a deduction would undoubtedly have adverse effects on public health in Ghana.
Furthermore, Dr. Donkoh highlighted the importance of timely access to treatment, warning that delays could lead to health deterioration, increased viral loads, and the emergence of drug resistance. He expressed disappointment at the discrepancy between the country's commitment to global health initiatives and the current impasse, which threatens to undermine progress in combating these diseases and tarnish Ghana's international reputation.
In light of these challenges, PSGH is calling for immediate action, including inspection of the stored commodities by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to ensure their safety and quality. They also advocate for quarantine and thorough quality control assessments before the products are distributed to patients. Additionally, PSGH emphasizes the importance of sustainable funding for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria programs, urging domestic dialogues on financing mechanisms to safeguard these vital initiatives.
Ultimately, PSGH stands ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to devise solutions that ensure uninterrupted access to essential health commodities. As advocates for patient safety and quality care, they are committed to supporting all Ghanaians, especially those facing health challenges related to HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria. However, despite efforts to address these issues, there has been no response from MoH officials to date.
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