Richard Kamwi on Government’s plan to directly procure medicine

[PODCAST]

The Ministry of Health and Social Services says it is changing the way it procures medicines — shifting to direct purchases from international manufacturers. Minister Esperance Luvindao insists the new system guarantees faster delivery and better value for money, with savings of more than N$221 million.

Former Health Minister Richard Kamwi, however, cautions that the solution is not only about saving money, but also about ensuring that patients in hospitals and clinics actually receive the medicines they need, when they need them. Critics argue that reforming procurement must go hand-in-hand with improving storage, distribution, and accountability within the health system.

Kamwi spoke to Desert FM to give his input on the matter.