PMRA USSD App
Date
9 January, 2025
Client
Pharmacies and Medicines Regulatory Authority
Website
www.pmra.mw
Location
Lilongwe, Malawi
Here To Know About This Project
Ctech Systems Ltd developed a robust USSD-based application for the Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority (PMRA) to empower the public and healthcare workers in Malawi to: report suspected counterfeit medicines, notify PMRA of unusual or adverse side effects from drugs, provide feedback directly via mobile phones using a simple and menu-driven interface. The system is integrated with a backend dashboard for regulatory officers to monitor reports in real time, generate alerts, and take action. It is designed for nationwide use and supports both Chichewa and English, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.
The Challenge Of Project
PMRA needed a reliable, inclusive, and internet-free system to help the public report counterfeit drugs and adverse drug reactions. Existing methods were slow, inaccessible in rural areas, and underutilized. The key challenge was to create a secure, easy-to-use platform that worked on all mobile phones and enabled real-time reporting across Malawi.
Process & Results
- Needs Assessment
- System Design
- Development & Integration
- Testing & Deployment
- Training & Handover
The PMRA USSD app was built using Python (Flask) for the USSD interface, integrated with an SMS gateway via API, and supported by a PostgreSQL database for secure data storage. A Django-based dashboard allows PMRA to monitor reports in real time. The system is hosted on a secure local Linux server and supports both English and Chichewa.
Software Development
