The Tanzania Pharmacy Council has launched a crackdown on pharmaceutical outlets operating beyond regulatory guidelines, aiming to protect public health.

The initiative targets pharmacies and drug shops providing medical treatment services without proper authorization, as these establishments are legally mandated to focus only on medication sale and dispensing.

Concerns arise from unlicensed medical practices in these shops, where staff diagnose and prescribe treatments without medical qualifications, posing serious health risks.The council emphasizes that such activities violate pharmaceutical regulations and endanger patients.

With limited healthcare access in rural areas, many rely on pharmacies for medical consultations, leading to unqualified personnel offering treatments.

Industry observers highlight challenges in regulating rapid pharmaceutical sector growth, noting that while expanded services improve medication access, they also enable substandard care.The council warns of penalties, including fines and license revocation, for non-compliant outlets.Advocates support the move, stressing the need to safeguard vulnerable populations from unsafe practices.The council urges the public to report unauthorized medical services and seek proper care from licensed professionals.