Manica Province, in central Mozambique, celebrates a major achievement for the health sector with the inauguration of the Intermediate Warehouse for Medicines and Medical Supplies in Chimoio. The new facility, aimed at improving the management and distribution of essential medicines, was officially opened on July 1, 2021, in a ceremony presided over by the President of the Republic, Filipe Jacinto Nyusi.
The warehouse, which will serve as a key supply point for 72 Health Units in the region, represents a significant advancement in strengthening the national health system. The project was executed competently by the contractor PANLEEN, Lda., which distinguished itself through technical excellence and commitment to quality. PANLEEN, Lda., a renowned company, was responsible for the construction of this state-of-the-art warehouse, which now stands as a benchmark for efficiency and safety in the distribution of medicines, ensuring better preservation and reduced resource wastage.
This project was made possible through a partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Health of Mozambique (MISAU), with funding of approximately 5 million dollars from the Global Fund. PANLEEN, Lda. not only delivered the project within the established schedule but also did so with a high standard of quality and innovation, rigorously meeting the required technical and operational specifications. The company played a key role in constructing a facility that combines high storage capacity with modern handling and safety technologies.
With an area of 2,278 m² and a storage capacity of up to 1,620 pallets, the Chimoio Warehouse is a state-of-the-art facility that will replace small district warehouses and directly supply the Health Units in the region, providing faster, more efficient, and strategically organized distribution of medicines. The facility also includes dedicated areas for vaccines, including cold storage chambers, ensuring proper and safe storage of these essential public health products.
In his inauguration speech, President Nyusi emphasized the importance of this project for improving medicine management in the country and highlighted the key role of PANLEEN in its execution. 'The construction of this warehouse from the ground up, in collaboration with PANLEEN, reflects our dedication to modernizing our health system. This is an example of how commitment to quality and efficiency translates into direct benefits for the population,' stated the President.
PANLEEN, Lda. also stood out for adopting principles of sustainability and innovation, being responsible for the installation of an electronic smoke detection system as well as a water reservoir for fire prevention. Another highlight was the implementation of a state-of-the-art incinerator, a pioneering facility in the country, which enables the safe and efficient management of hospital waste. As an essential piece of equipment, the incinerator can operate using renewable fuel, helping to reduce maintenance costs and promote environmental protection.
In addition to its technical expertise, PANLEEN, Lda. was actively involved in community development during the project, hiring over 120 local workers, thereby generating employment and income for the population of Chimoio. The company also demonstrated social sensitivity by involving women in gardening and cleaning activities, promoting social and economic inclusion.
The joint effort between UNDP, MISAU, and PANLEEN, Lda. reflects a commitment to the continuous improvement of health services in Mozambique. The successful construction of the Chimoio Intermediate Warehouse marks an important step in the Government’s strategy to expand the coverage and efficiency of the national health system.
This project is just the beginning of a series of similar initiatives being planned, with new warehouses under construction in other regions of the country. The next challenge will be the rehabilitation of the Beira Warehouse, with an expanded capacity of over 5,000 pallets, which will further enhance Mozambique’s logistical capacity to effectively meet the health needs of its population.
The Chimoio Warehouse, constructed with the support of PANLEEN, Lda., is undoubtedly a true showcase of how the combination of technical expertise, innovation, and commitment to quality can transform public health and directly benefit communities.
