Somalia’s Ministry of Health has submitted a list of dangerous medicines that are misused as narcotics to the country’s security agencies, as the government steps up efforts to address their illegal importation and misuse.
The Minister of Health and Social Care, Ali Haji Adam, announced the move during a meeting with members of the House of the People.
The minister said the list had been submitted to the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) and the police to support action against those involved in the illegal trade and misuse of the medicines. He stressed the need to prevent their illegal importation and identify those involved in their distribution and abuse.
The minister also cited international statistics indicating that approximately 600,000 people die annually from the use of narcotics and related substances, with men accounting for the majority of these deaths.
During the meeting, some members of parliament questioned whether the government’s measures were sufficient, calling for action beyond submitting a list to investigative agencies.
Lawmakers also raised concerns about expired medicines, the alteration of expiry dates and allegations that some officials may be involved in activities related to narcotics.
The misuse of certain medicines for their narcotic effects remains a concern in Somalia because of the potential consequences for public health, social well-being and security.
The submission of the list forms part of broader efforts to strengthen pharmaceutical regulation and cooperation between the Ministry of Health, security agencies and regulatory authorities.
Attention is now focused on the measures security agencies will take to address the illegal importation of these medicines and hold those involved in their misuse accountable.
