The Mozambican Ministry of Health today admitted “some inefficiencies” regarding the shortage of medicines and medical supplies but rejected claims of a collapse of the National Health System, instead criticizing corruption and poor service by some staff.
“We also want to recognize that the national health system is facing some inefficiencies, including occasional shortages of some medicines and surgical materials in certain health units, though not in all,” said Nelson Mucopo, National Director of Medical Assistance, during a press conference in Maputo.
Mucopo explained that shortages are partly due to the vandalism and destruction of warehouses during post-election protests in 2024, which disrupted the normal supply cycle. He also cited reduced external funding, including cuts from the United States, outstanding debts to suppliers, and climate change impacts affecting logistics.
The government has essential medicines available for treating malaria, cholera, diarrhea, hypertension, diabetes, and stroke. To prevent further shortages, it has received two containers this week with 794,000 gloves and 200,000 catheters, and is expecting medicines and surgical materials valued at $30 million, along with another $2 million in aid from international partners.
Despite claims of shortages, Mucopo emphasized that hospitals continue to operate normally. From February 9 to 22, central and provincial hospitals handled 81,500 outpatients, 50,410 emergency cases, 42,444 laboratory tests, 1,266 urgent surgeries, 1,179 cesareans, and recorded 3,468 normal births and 4,375 live births.
The Ministry criticized staff involved in misconduct. “Unfortunately, some colleagues deviate from standard conduct in the health sector. We have cases of indiscipline, poor service, and corruption, which are being addressed by the competent authorities,” Mucopo said, adding that most staff do not engage in such behavior.
The government is awaiting detailed reports from the Health Minister on the situation to take further measures if necessary.
