Pharmaceutical products are essential for saving lives and alleviating suffering. However, expired and unused medications pose significant health, safety, and environmental risks at the community level.
Improper disposal can reduce drug efficacy, treatment failures, and potential toxicity due to chemical degradation. Additionally, the misuse of expired antibiotics contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
In terms of safety, accidental poisoning—particularly among children and pets—and the risk of misuse or abuse of expired medications are major concerns. Environmentally, improper disposal contaminates water and soil, threatening ecosystems and food safety. These risks highlight the urgent need for proper disposal programs, community education, and effective regulatory measures.
Despite efforts to address this issue, Tanzania currently lacks a national policy and guidelines for managing household pharmaceutical waste. Studies show that the majority of households retain unused medications, increasing the likelihood of improper disposal. A 2021 study by Marwa et al. found that 96% of surveyed households in Mwanza stored unused medications instead of disposing of them properly.
The Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) has taken steps to enhance recall operations and ensure the safe disposal of unfit medicinal products. However, household pharmaceutical waste management remains a gap that requires urgent attention.
Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the EANNASO, with support from GFA Consulting Group and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, is implementing the Household Pharmaceutical Waste Management Initiative (HPWMI) in Arusha City.
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By addressing these critical issues, HPWMI seeks to safeguard public health and environmental safety, fostering a more sustainable and health-conscious community in Arusha and beyond. Join us in creating a safer and healthier future! Learn more about HPWMI and how you can be part of the solution.
Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the EANNASO, with support from GFA Consulting Group and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, is implementing the Household Pharmaceutical Waste Management Initiative (HPWMI) in Arusha City.