A recent forensic audit has revealed a significant shortfall in medical supplies valued at approximately K559,000 at the Zambia Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA). The missing stock, totaling 4,184 units, was supposed to have been returned to the ZAMMSA warehouse after the closure of the cholera emergency centre at Heroes Stadium.
The forensic examination, conducted by PwC, uncovered glaring gaps in the accountability of key medical items including face masks, chlorine, and cannulas. Despite repeated requests and follow-ups, ZAMMSA has failed to provide adequate supporting documentation or satisfactory explanations to account for the shortages.
According to the PwC report, the cholera emergency centre—operated under the coordination of the Ministry of Health—was responsible for maintaining an inventory of supplies during its operation. However, the audit identified that several medical items expected to be returned were either omitted or unaccounted for in ZAMMSA’s inventory records.
“The forensic audit underscores the urgent need for further investigations to clarify why these medical supplies were not reflected in the returned stock records and to verify whether they were physically returned to the warehouse,” the report states.
This discovery raises serious concerns about inventory management, internal controls, and transparency at ZAMMSA, especially given the critical nature of medical supplies during health emergencies. The missing items—such as face masks and chlorine—are vital for infection prevention and control, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Health sector stakeholders and government officials are now calling for enhanced oversight mechanisms to prevent recurrence of such losses. Strengthening inventory tracking systems and enforcing accountability will be key to ensuring that essential medical supplies are properly managed and made available when needed most.
The Zambian public and health partners await further updates as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding this shortfall and measures are put in place to safeguard medical resources critical to public health.