In a bold move to combat persistent drug theft and corruption in its public health system, Mozambique is rolling out a cutting-edge electronic tracking system to monitor the journey of medicines from warehouse to patient.

Mozambique’s Ministry of Health is taking a firm stand against medicine theft by launching an advanced digital monitoring system across the national health sector. Health Minister Ussene Isse announced the initiative as part of a sweeping anti-corruption campaign, vowing to hold accountable anyone found diverting medical supplies for personal gain.

The move follows a string of high-profile drug smuggling cases, including the arrest of six individuals in March last year four of them health centre workers in Beira, allegedly caught attempting to traffic medicines across the border into Zimbabwe. Just last month, health authorities in Sofala province admitted to serious gaps in warehouse control, again in Beira, after another arrest of six suspects linked to medical theft.

The electronic tracking system aims to seal these gaps by ensuring real-time surveillance and traceability of medicines throughout the distribution chain. Officials believe this digital solution will enhance transparency, deter theft, and restore public trust in the country’s health services.

As Mozambique modernizes its health infrastructure, the government is positioning technology as a key ally in the fight against systemic corruption and the safeguarding of critical medical resources.