Medical Stores and UNDP sign a $ 4.9 million cost sharing agreement

Medical Stores Limited (MSL) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a cost sharing agreement (CSA) worth USD 4,9 Million covering the next step of the expansion of the MSL Central Warehouse in Lusaka. This CSA will enable UNDP Zambia to implement the phase 2 of the construction of MSL Central warehouse according to international standards for the pharmaceutical supply chain. The works under this agreement are expected to commence mid of Jan 2018.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, MSL Managing Director, Mr. Chikuta Mbewe said that this grant agreement marked another major milestone for the institution and that MSL is looking forward to have this project start in the coming weeks. Mr. Mbewe thanked UNDP Zambia on behalf of Management and Staff at Medical Stores Limited (MSL) for the good partnership and support which has been enjoyed over the years. He stated that this grant agreement is an investment that belongs to the people of Zambia while contributing towards the national development of the Country. From her side the UNDP Country Director, Ms. Mandisa Mashologu, expressed happiness to partner with MSL on this venture which will further improve supply chain services to the public health sector throughout the country once the construction completed. She situated the investment within the three of the sustainable development goals: nr. 3 good health and well-being, nr. 7 affordable and clean energy and nr. 17 partnership for the goals.

This agreement follows the approval by the EU of a 4.822 Million Euro grant in support of the MSL Masterplan for the supply chain infrastructure that is funding the cost of the phase 2 works in Medical Stores Limited within the framework of the HSSP program of the EU supporting the health sector. The works under this grant at MSL are expected to be completed and the new storage and handling facilities operational by 2019.