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In response to alarming reports of drug theft that jeopardize the integrity of Sierra Leone’s free healthcare program, health sector leaders convened to devise a comprehensive strategy aimed at combating corruption and ensuring that vital medicines reach those in need.
During a press conference on Monday, July 14th, 2025, at the Ministry of Health’s conference hall in Youyi Building, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sartie Kenneh issued a stern warning to individuals involved in the theft and mismanagement of healthcare drugs. He alleged potential collusion among certain health officials to divert medicines during and after distribution. Dr. Kenneh stressed the importance of collaboration to secure these critical supplies, labeling them as “the lifeline” of the healthcare system.
While acknowledging the government’s ongoing efforts to improve service delivery, Dr. Kenneh expressed disappointment over persistent attitudes toward drug theft and called for immediate cessation, warning that those caught would face severe consequences.
Chief Pharmacist Moses Batema also addressed the media, emphasizing the critical need for the proper use of healthcare commodities, including medicines and vaccines provided by the government. He voiced concern over the breach of public trust due to drug theft and noted that the Ministry of Health has already suspended personnel as part of its response strategy. Batema committed to reinforcing the supply chain through measures such as refresher training for staff on ethics and accountability, stating, “Stealing medicines meant for the public is unacceptable.”
Jatu Abdulai, Managing Director of the National Medical Supplies Agency (NMSA), recounted several attempts to divert drugs intended for public use. She highlighted the necessity of vigilance among stakeholders and the importance of an existing management software designed to oversee the distribution process. Abdulai reminded attendees that while medicines are provided free of charge, their procurement is costly, and proper usage is imperative. She warned that anyone caught stealing or mismanaging drugs would face prosecution.
Furthermore, Abdulai clarified the distinction between free healthcare drugs and cost-recovery medicines, noting that the former are marked with batch numbers indicating their source of procurement. She urged anyone suspecting drug theft or mismanagement to report such incidents promptly, reinforcing both the NMSA’s and the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the healthcare supply chain.
