MCAZ Cracks Down on Counterfeit Medicine By Launching Tracking Initiative

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has announced a comprehensive new strategy to eliminate counterfeit medicines from the nation’s supply chain. This initiative mandates a robust track-and-trace system for all medicinal products circulating within the country.

The groundbreaking guidelines, which became active in July 2025, require that every single medical product, from tablets and injections to syrups, be fully traceable from production to patient. This system is designed to ensure authenticity, streamline recalls, and ultimately restore citizen confidence in the safety of their medications.

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MCAZ Cracks Down on Counterfeit Medicine By Launching Tracking Initiative

The MCAZ has outlined a meticulous, multi-phase rollout plan to ensure thorough adoption. The initial stage will focus on a targeted pilot program, zeroing in on high-risk medicines and specific manufacturers.

This will be followed by a broader expansion across the entire pharmaceutical network, culminating in a full, mandatory national implementation within five years, complete with strict enforcement protocols.

At the heart of the new system is advanced product coding. Each drug package will be marked with a unique, scannable identifier, such as a Data Matrix code, compliant with global GS1 standards. Furthermore, all entities within the supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, and pharmacies, are required to submit electronic product data to the MCAZ and ensure all labels are clearly readable, creating a seamless digital trail.

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The authority has emphasised that compliance is mandatory, with legal repercussions for those who violate the new regulations. To support the industry through this significant transition, the MCAZ will offer extensive training programs and continuous technical assistance.

Medical professionals and the public will be educated on the new system designed to curb the distribution of both illegal and legal medicines through illicit channels.