About Our Society

Learn about the Pharmaceutical Society of Zambia's History, Values, Governance and Mandates.

WHO WE ARE

Organizational Information

Our History & Structure

Established in 1971, the Pharmaceutical Society of Zambia (PSZ) has grown from just four registered pharmacists to over 2,680 pharmacists and 4,320 pharmacy technologists today.

Since our inception, we've grown remarkably. Our journey reflects our commitment to advancing pharmaceutical care and improving Zambia's healthcare landscape.

PSZ is meticulously structured to ensure it meets the needs of its diverse membership and effectively delivers on its mandate. The organization fosters inclusivity through various committees and working groups dedicated to professional development, public health initiatives, and policy advocacy.

Our organizational structure includes:

  • General Assembly: The highest decision-making body
  • Governing Council: Comprising 15 members including the President, Vice President, and representatives
  • Executive Committee: Managing day-to-day operations
  • Provincial Branches: Ensuring nationwide representation
  • Specialized Committees: Focusing on education, legal affairs, membership, and more
PSZ Logo

Our Constitution & Values

Our operations are guided by our constitution which establishes our commitment to:

  • Professionalism

    Upholding the highest standards of practice

  • Ethics and Integrity

    Maintaining moral principles in all actions

  • Collaboration

    Working together with stakeholders

  • Innovation and Excellence

    Pursuing continuous improvement

  • Accountability

    Taking responsibility for our actions

"Excellence in Practice" - Our guiding motto

Our Membership

Growing community of pharmacy professionals

2680+

Registered Pharmacists

4320+

Pharmacy Technologists

5

Membership Categories

(Full, Associate, Student, Life, Honorary)
10

Provincial Branches

OUR GOVERNANCE

Annual General Meeting

The supreme authority of PSZ, held annually with powers to:

  • Adopt minutes and reports
  • Consider and approve audited accounts
  • Elect office bearers every two years
  • Make constitutional amendments
Quorum: 25% of fully paid-up members

Governing Council

The decision-making organ comprising:

  • President
  • Vice President
  • National Treasurer
  • National Pharmacy Technologist Representative
  • 2 Executive Committee Members
  • Provincial Branch Chairpersons
  • Committee Chairpersons
  • Life Members
Meetings: Quarterly to oversee operations

Executive Committee

Manages day-to-day affairs with members:

  • President (Head of Society)
  • Vice President
  • Executive Secretary (Ex-Officio)
  • National Treasurer
  • Pharmacy Technologist Representative
  • Two Elected Committee Members
Role: Strategic planning & operations

OUR OBJECTIVES

Mandates

Key Functions

  • Formulate rules and regulations for branch operations
  • Administer organization property and finances
  • Conduct disciplinary and professional regulation
  • Establish and implement a uniform Code of Ethics
  • Recommend standards for pharmacy education
  • Provide forums for professional exchange
  • Lobby for conducive pharmacy practice environment

Strategic Aims

  • Provide authoritative voice for the pharmacy profession
  • Promote access to best pharmaceutical care
  • Support interests of members and affiliate associations
  • Contribute to policy development nationally and internationally
  • Advise government on pharmacy practice matters
  • Educate public on importance of pharmacy
  • Advocate for improved public health
  • Uphold and improve professional integrity

OUR STRATEGIC FOCUS

2024-2029 Priorities

The Profession

  • Enhancing professional autonomy through self-regulation
  • Transitioning to PharmD as entry-level qualification
  • Promoting research and technological advancement

Our Members

  • Fostering diversity, equity and inclusion
  • Enhancing member engagement and satisfaction
  • Building capacity through mentorship programs

Our Society

  • Strengthening institutional capacity
  • Ensuring long-term sustainability
  • Improving operational efficiency

Our Communities

  • Strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Optimizing supply chain management
  • Advocating for favorable policies and legislation
  • Combating substandard and falsified medicines

Our Partners

  • Forging strategic collaborations
  • Leveraging international networks
  • Engaging government and development partners

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