Commodity security is emerging as a central pillar in the realization of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), according to the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga. In a strategic meeting with the Directorate of Health Products and Technologies (DHPT), Dr. Oluga emphasized the need for renewed leadership, innovation, and alignment in the management of Health Products and Technologies (HPTs) to ensure sustainable and equitable access to essential medical commodities.
Addressing the meeting, Dr. Oluga underscored the urgency of building resilient health systems capable of securing consistent access to quality medical products. Highlighting experiences with centrally managed commodities—such as cancer drugs and COVID-19-related supplies—he pointed out that long-term sustainability requires deliberate investment in the management and local manufacturing of HPTs.
“Health Products and Technologies management and local manufacturing are key,” said the PS. “Our experience has taught us that we cannot afford to be reactive. We need systems that work consistently and sustainably.”
He called on the Directorate to align its operations more closely with the Ministry’s broader mandate and national health priorities. This includes enhancing product safety, quality assurance, and the reliability of supply chains. “Provide firm leadership. Ensure the safety of HPTs—let the industry have confidence that our products are safe,” he stated.
In particular, the PS urged the Directorate to address recurring stockouts of vaccines and essential medicines, which continue to affect service delivery and public confidence in the healthcare system. He also stressed the importance of eradicating substandard and counterfeit products from the supply chain. “We must ensure consistent access to vaccines and essential medicines. This is about restoring public trust and delivering real outcomes.”
Dr. Oluga also emphasized the importance of innovation, accountability, and measurable results, particularly in light of upcoming budgetary reforms. He called for a performance-based approach to resource allocation, where funding is directed toward interventions that demonstrate tangible impact. “Roll up your sleeves and work. Invest resources where we see real impact—not where there’s no movement. Parliament and all partners are watching. To whom much is given, much is expected.”
The strategic meeting brought together key divisions within the Directorate, including those responsible for Quality Assurance, Health Products and Technologies, and Traditional and Alternative Medicine. The aim was to assess current progress and refine priorities in areas such as local pharmaceutical manufacturing, supply chain policy, and clinical guidance.
As part of ongoing efforts, the Ministry is finalizing four strategic frameworks to drive reforms in the sector. These include the Local Manufacturing Strategy, the National Supply Chain Strategy, the Health Product Donations Strategy, and the Pharmacy Benefits Package. These frameworks are expected to provide a structured path for improving access, safety, and sustainability in the delivery of medical products.
Additionally, dissemination of the updated Essential Medicines List is currently underway, ensuring that healthcare providers across the country are equipped with current information for prescribing and procurement. A notable achievement is the recent development of the National Oxygen Delivery Guidelines, a crucial step in improving access to life-saving respiratory care.
Looking ahead, the Ministry is increasing its focus on the research, regulation, and integration of traditional medicine into the national health system. A draft policy and bill on Traditional and Alternative Medicine are under review, aimed at ensuring the safe and evidence-based use of these practices.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening systems, promoting local innovation, and ensuring that the health sector delivers meaningful results to all Kenyans.
