In an effort to promote public health and curb the misuse of medical products and illicit substances, the Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority (BoMRA) today hosted a joint sensitisation workshop in partnership with the Serowe Tribal Administration.
The workshop, held in Serowe, forms part of BoMRA’s ongoing public and patient outreach programme aimed at raising awareness on the safe use of both human and veterinary medical products. The initiative also targets the growing public health challenge posed by the misuse of controlled substances, including prescription-only medicines.
Key law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Botswana Police Narcotics, Flora and Fauna Investigation Unit, participated in the event, underscoring the importance of collaborative action in safeguarding communities from the dangers of drug abuse and unregulated medical practices.
According to BoMRA officials, special attention was given to the increasing abuse and illegal distribution of prescription-only drugs such as antibiotics and codeine-containing cough syrups. These products, which are meant for regulated medical use under professional supervision, are frequently misused in local communities—posing serious risks to public health and safety.
“This workshop is part of our broader effort to ensure the public understands the importance of using medical products safely and in accordance with regulatory standards,” said a BoMRA spokesperson. “We also want to empower community leaders to play an active role in discouraging the misuse of medicines and combat the growing problem of illicit drugs.”
BoMRA reiterated its commitment to enhancing stakeholder engagement and promoting a regulatory environment that supports the safety, efficacy, and quality of all medical products in Botswana. The Authority emphasized the critical role of traditional leadership, law enforcement, and community education in driving home its message of responsible medicine use and compliance.
Today’s event is one of several planned across the country, as BoMRA steps up efforts to build awareness and strengthen the regulatory ecosystem through inclusive public participation and inter-agency cooperation.For more information, contact BoMRA Public Relations at info@bomra.co.bw or pr@bomra.co.bw, Tel: 373 1727 / 373 1728.
The Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority (BoMRA) was established under the Medicines and Related Substances Act to regulate the manufacture, import, export, storage, distribution, and use of human and veterinary medicines, medical devices, cosmetics, and related substances. The Authority is committed to ensuring that all regulated products meet established standards of quality, safety, and efficacy.
