The change of ownership, name, or management of a drug shop in Uganda is regulated by the National Drug Authority (NDA) under the National Drug Policy and Authority Act. Every owner intending to make such changes must seek official permission from the NDA before implementing them.
The process ensures that the shop’s management, personnel, and premises meet national health and pharmaceutical standards. Unauthorized changes may lead to rejection of registration, suspension of licenses, or legal penalties.
Procedure for Change of Drug Shop Ownership, Name, or Management
- Submit a formal application
The applicant must submit a written request to the National Drug Authority (NDA) seeking permission to change the ownership, management, or name of the drug shop. The application should be completed using the official NDA form available at NDA offices or district drug inspectorates. - Meet professional and legal requirements
The proposed changes must involve qualified personnel such as licensed pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, or approved chemists. A supervising registered pharmacist must be associated with the business before submitting the application. - Pay the required fee
After completing the application form, pay a non-refundable fee of UGX 100,000 to the National Drug Authority. Payment can be made directly to the bank in the name of NDA. - Submit the documents and proof of payment
Attach the payment receipt and all required documents to the completed form, then submit them to the Pharmacist Officer responsible for name or ownership changes in your district, or to the District Health Inspector’s office for inspection. - Premises inspection
NDA officers will visit and inspect the drug shop premises to confirm compliance with health, safety, and licensing standards before approving the change. - Review and approval
The NDA reviews all submitted materials. If the application meets all legal requirements, permission is granted within two (2) working days from the date of receipt. - Collect your certificate
Collect your Permission to Change Drug Shop Ownership, Name, or Management from the NDA office where you filed the application.
Important Note
Both the applicant and the pharmaceutical in-charge are responsible for ensuring that all professional certificates submitted to NDA are valid, current, and authentic.
Required Documents
Applicants must attach the following documents to their application:
- Clearance letter from the Ministry of Health.
- Previous approval letter from the National Drug Authority.
- Proof of business registration and drug shop licensing.
- Original certificate of registration (business name).
- Drug certificate verified by NDA.
- Certificate of incorporation (for companies).
- Proof letter from the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).
- Certificate of suitability of premises.
- Evidence that all drugs listed are part of Uganda’s Essential Drugs List.
- Pro-forma invoice of drugs submitted to the Ministry of Health.
- List of items and drugs available in the shop.
- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate.
- Valid registration certificates for all pharmaceutical products.
- Operating license for a retail or wholesale drug shop.
- Letter of acceptance and registration certificate of the professional in charge.
- Letter of commitment from the supervising dispenser.
- In case of ownership transfer, a sales agreement or memorandum of association showing the new ownership structure.
- Two passport photos of the qualified professional in charge.
- Original tenancy agreement for the premises.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the change of drug shop ownership, name, or management, the applicant must:
- Possess a valid drug shop license issued by NDA.
- Be physically fit and professionally certified to operate or supervise a drug shop.
- Adhere to all ethical and legal standards governing drug dispensing in Uganda.
- Be at least 18 years of age and not exempted under Section 5(a) of the National Drug Policy and Authority Act.
Fees
The official fee for processing a change of drug shop ownership or management is UGX 100,000, payable to the National Drug Authority.
Processing Time
Processing typically takes two (2) working days from the date of submission, provided all required documents are complete and accurate.
Validity of Permission
The permission granted for changing ownership, name, or management is valid for one (1) year. Renewal may be required depending on the nature of subsequent changes or NDA policy updates.
Contact Information
National Drug Authority (Head Office)
Plot 19 Lumumba Avenue (Opposite TWED Plaza), Kampala, Uganda
P.O. Box 23096, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 417 788 100
Directorate of Product Safety: +256 417 788 124
Directorate of Inspectorate Services: +256 417 788 129
Email: [email protected]
Website: nda.or.ug
Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU)
Pharmacy House, Plot 1847 Kyambogo Banda, Kampala
P.O. Box 3774, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 348 796 / +256 392 174 280
Email: [email protected]
Need for This Procedure
The change of drug shop ownership procedure ensures that all pharmaceutical businesses operate legally, maintain professional supervision, and safeguard public health. It also helps the NDA maintain accurate national records of all licensed drug shops.
Other Uses of the Certificate
The permission certificate can serve as:
- Proof of legal authorization for ownership transfer.
- A document required for business registration renewals.
- Evidence during regulatory inspections or audits.
- A supporting document for banking and investment purposes.
