MSD to launch alternative dispensing paper bags to replace plastic

 MSD’s director general Laurean Bwanakunu

What you need to know:

  • The proposed alternative drugs bags will replace the current plastic bags which were outlawed over a month ago.

Dar es Salaam. The Medical Stores Department (MSD) is set to launch dispensing paper envelopes that will be used to carry prescription drugs in the private and public health facilities.

The proposed alternative will replace the current little plastic bags which are no longer allowed following the recent ban on single use plastic bags which came into effect over a month ago.

 MSD’s director general Laurean Bwanakunu revealed this during the third MSD manufacturers and suppliers’ annual general conference which ended today July 19, 2019 in Dar es Salaam.

According to Mr Bwanakunu the alternative bags will be distributed to all public and private health facilities across the country.

"The alternative bags will be sold to the hospitals at affordable prices," said Mr Bwanakunu.

The MSD boss also reassured that the drugs department was determined to closely cooperate with the private sector in Tanzania and international business communities in establishing pharmaceutical industries in the country.

"The plans to establish pharmaceutical industries will be in line with the sensitization of waste management strategies to ensure that the environment remains undisturbed," said the MSD boss.

Referring to the agreement to supply medicines and medical supplies to SADC members States, Mr Bwanakunu revealed that the department has so far secured 80 bidders from around the world who are keen on supplying medicine and medical supplies to the bloc.