Last week on 6, December, 2007, a news story on subsidised prices of medicines was published. It was noted that the EAC has been conducting a two-year study to centralise the purchase of medicine and food. According to the draft plan, the partner states’ respective drug agencies will be under an overall food and drug administration arrangement for efficiency and harmony with the EAC treaties and protocols in the area of regulation. The innovation was approved by the EAC Council of Ministers. They resolved to centralise procurement of drugs in an effort to cut costs of importation. This common focus is intended to raise better economies of scale and cater for value for money. The treaty also intends to harmonise laws governing health standards, exchanging medical personnel during emergencies and sharing information amongst one another in the sector. As a member of the bloc, Rwanda expects to benefit from the move. The high cost of drugs in Rwanda was making it hard for the average person to get proper treatment. Thanks to the new exploit. Kanombe
