Harmonizing Veterinary Medicine Regulation in Southern Africa

By Daily News Reporter 

In a significant step towards harmonizing the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently conducted its first physical joint assessment. 

This groundbreaking initiative, held in collaboration with the UK's Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), aims to enhance the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products across the region.

The joint assessment, as part of the Zambia , Zimbabwe, Botswana, Nambia, South Africa , Malawi and Tanzania ( ZAZIBONA) project, brought together regulatory experts from SADC Member States and the UK-VMD. Over  five (5) days, the team evaluated the regulatory framework, procedures, and capacity of participating countries in regulating veterinary medicinal products.

Speaking during the meeting Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority ( ZAMRA) representing Director General, Director Finance Mr Mathews Banda stated that this initiative of collaboration among SADC counties will improve the access quality of veterinary medicine products in the region.

"This joint assessment marks a crucial milestone in our efforts to harmonize veterinary medicine regulation in Southern Africa," said Mr Banda said.

"By working together, we can ensure that our region has access to safe, effective, and quality veterinary medicinal products." Mr. Banda said.

The assessment team also evaluating compliance with regional and international standards. The team further shared best practices and experiences from the UK-VMD and other regions, discussing how to adapt and implement these in the SADC region.

"This collaboration with the UK-VMD has been invaluable," said mr Banda 

 "We have gained valuable insights into international best practices and are committed to implementing these in our own regulatory frameworks." He added.

And the joint assessment culminated in the development of an action plan and recommendations for improving the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in SADC Member States. 

This plan will guide future efforts to enhance regional cooperation, capacity building, and the sharing of best practices.

As the SADC region continues to work towards harmonizing veterinary medicine regulation, this joint assessment marks a significant step forward. 

By collaborating with international partners and sharing expertise, Southern Africa can ensure the availability of quality veterinary medicinal products, ultimately enhancing animal health, public health, and regional economic development.

The ZAZIBONA project aims to harmonize the registration of veterinary medicinal products across the SADC region. By streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing cooperation, ZAZIBONA seeks to improve the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products.