The Ministry of Health, through the National TB and Leprosy Elimination Program, has disclosed that Malawi is currently facing low stocks of first-line anti-tuberculosis (TB) medicines, particularly the RHZE combination, across all regional warehouses of the Central Medical Stores Trust (CMST).
According to a statement signed by Secretary for Health, Dr Samson Mndolo, the shortage stems from a global supply disruption of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), which are vital in the production of TB medicines.
The ministry indicates that the problem arose in May 2024 when one of the main WHO-prequalified API manufacturers was forced to shut down temporarily, leading to delayed deliveries that were initially expected in March 2025.
Despite the setback, the Ministry says the country still has facility-level stocks equivalent to two months of average consumption, as indicated by the Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) and is working to normalise supply levels as quickly as possible.
“The Ministry of Health recognises the critical importance of uninterrupted TB treatment and, as such, the Procurement and Supply Chain Management team is working closely with procurement agents to expedite the delivery process and restore normal supply levels as soon as possible.
“Please be informed that we have been advised that our next consignment is expected to arrive by the end of August 20,25, 25. We are still in discussion with the procurement agent to push the delivery date earlier than indicated,” Dr Mndolo stated.
Meanwhile, health facilities have been advised to prioritise patients already on treatment, borrow medicines from other facilities when necessary, and use alternative regimens such as RH combined with loose formulations of E400 and Z400.
Facilities are also urged to avoid initiating new patients on standard regimens unless sufficient stock is confirmed.
The Ministry has appealed for cooperation from health workers to ensure continuity of TB care during this period of shortage.
