Health Ministry Rebukes PSU Over Pharmacist Licensing Authority

The Ministry of Health has issued a directive to the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU), ordering an immediate cessation of the practice of issuing Annual Practising Licences (APLs) to pharmacists. The Ministry asserts that the PSU is acting beyond its legal remit.

This directive, communicated in a letter dated September 18, 2026, from Prof. Charles Olaro, the Director General of Health Services, to PSU Secretary Dr. Stephen Lutoti, references a legal opinion from the Solicitor General. This opinion, dated September 11, 2026, clarifies the regulatory powers delineated in the Pharmacy and Drugs Act (Cap. 309).

Prof. Olaro emphasized that while the PSU holds responsibilities concerning membership, professional standards, and advancement of the pharmacy profession, the Act does not grant the society the authority to issue practising licences or independently decide a pharmacist’s entitlement to practice. These regulatory, registration, and licensing powers are legally vested in the Pharmacy Board and the Registrar.

The Ministry also clarified that PSU membership fees do not satisfy the state’s licensing requirements. The conversion of PSU membership certificates into practising licences is deemed inconsistent with the statutory framework.

To prevent confusion, Prof. Olaro requested that all future PSU documentation clearly distinguish between society membership and official state licensing. This aims to avoid ambiguity for pharmacists, employers, regulatory bodies, and the public.

The Ministry trusts the PSU will implement administrative measures to comply with this legal position and collaborate with the Pharmacy Board and Registrar for a seamless transition, including clear communication to all affected parties.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ministry-of-health-psu-clash-over-authority-to-licence-pharmacists-5605298