Mozambique: ‘Planpinaite’ diversion worries the health sector in Nampula

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Mozambique: ‘Planpinaite’ diversion worries the health sector in Nampula

9:52 CAT | 06 May 2025

FILE - For illustration purposes only. [File photo: Ikweli]

The diversion of the National Nutrition Program (ADPU) supplements commonly known as ‘Planpinaite’, is a concern for the Public Health department in the province of Nampula.

The supplement is used to complement the diet and provide nutrients and vitamins for people with different levels of malnutrition.

The concern was revealed exclusively to Ikweli by Jaime Miguel, head of the Health department at the Provincial Health Directorate, who explained that the problem extends practically throughout the province. He gave assurances that a team from the Provincial Health Inspectorate was investigating the situation.

“This problem occurs throughout the province of Nampula. Some medications, such as Planpinaite, which we call ADPU, a nutritional program supplement, are mistaken for chocolate or peanut candy, meaning that they are no longer part of the National Health System but have become the focus of a clandestine network,” he said.

“We are aware that some colleagues have even been taken to court because of these situations. However, since it involves the courts and the police, I would prefer that they speak to the Inspectorate. What I can say is that we are aware of cases in which colleagues acted in bad faith, taking these supplies to the black market.” he said.

“There are also cases of vandalism by criminals. As I said, these are complex cases that involve the police and the courts, and I do not have precise information about how many technicians are being held responsible.”

Miguel added that raising awareness among the population is a priority, as a way of promoting good nutritional practices

“Here in public health, we work to inform the population,” Miguel explained. “Medical care provides medicines. Now, when a medicine leaves the National Health System network, it is a loss. Medicines are scarce, and when they are diverted to unknown networks, children and other people who really need them stop receiving them. The supplement ends up being sold to people who do not need it, which can have long-term consequences.”

Another problem highlighted by the head of the Public Health department is the inadequate way in which the product is stored, even after it has been diverted.

“The manufacturer recommends that it be stored at a specific temperature or in a dry place. Each product has its own requirements. However, these supplies are often stored incorrectly, such as in the sun or exposed to dust, which causes them to lose their properties. This is also an attack on public health. Fortunately, there is now a Public Health Law, which is comprehensive and applies to all sectors, including health technicians. There is also the Statute of State Officials and Agents, which defines obligations, rights and duties. Misappropriating state assets is a crime, and if there is evidence of an official’s involvement, he or she will be penalized. Any official who engages in such acts will face problems if they are discovered.”

The head of the Public Health Department in Nampula appeals to the community, both buyers and sellers, to avoid this type of trade, reiterating that National Health System medicines should not, under any circumstances, be diverted to the black market.

“Anyone who participates in this runs the risk of being penalized, because they are harming the country, which sorely needs this little that is being diverted to clandestine networks,” Miguel concluded.

Source: Jornal Ikweli