Uganda proposes Bill to regulate medicines, supplements and cosmetics
The Bill aims to replace the outdated National Drug Policy and Authority Act of 1993 and introduce a modern framework that addresses current health risks and international standards.
Uganda has unveiled a new legislative proposal to boost the regulation of medicines, medical devices, nutritional supplements, and cosmetics, the latter being regulated for the first time.
The National Drug and Health Products Authority Bill, 2025, was presented to parliament on September 4 by Minister of State for Health, Anifa Kawooya.
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The Bill aims to replace the outdated National Drug Policy and Authority Act of 1993 and introduce a modern framework that addresses current health risks and international standards.
The law proposes the creation of the National Drug and Health Products Authority, which would supervise the production, approval, and distribution of drugs, as well as medical devices and clinical trials.
It also seeks to control illegal facilities, regulate vaccine rollouts, manage drug recalls, and monitor sunscreens and other health-related products.
In parliament, Kawooya highlighted the urgency of reform, saying: “The 1993 law is outdated. With new technologies, evolving health professions, and World Health Organisation (WHO) standards, our regulatory framework must modernise.”
“Our citizens face risks from unregulated drugs, cosmetics, and devices. This Bill equips Uganda to regulate, test, and recall harmful products, safeguarding public health,” she added.
The legislation also introduces stronger penalties for products that fail to meet required standards.
Parliament Watch Uganda reports that companies could face fines of up to UGX 100 million (Sh3.56 million), while individuals may be fined UGX 60 million (Sh2.14 million) or jailed for up to five years.
Separately, cross-border mergers within the East African Community will require approval by the East African Community Competition Authority starting 1 November.
In addition, a recent Court of Appeal ruling confirmed that companies need not be registered in Uganda to file legal cases, further shaping the regulatory and business environment.
The Bill represents a major step in modernising Uganda’s health product regulation and strengthening protections for citizens against unsafe or substandard products.
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