Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Kenya’s pharmaceutical sector into a self-reliant, technologically advanced, and patient-centred system. Speaking at the 45th Annual Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) Scientific Conference in Mombasa, Duale outlined five key priorities aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through pharmaceutical sector reforms.
Duale stressed that local pharmaceutical manufacturing is critical for national security, economic growth, and public health. “Local manufacturing is not negotiable. It is a national security priority, an economic stimulus, and a public health necessity,” he said, adding that the government is keen on positioning Kenya as a regional pharmaceutical hub.
The CS called on PSK to lead in attracting investment, shaping policies, and ensuring quality control for locally produced health products. He also announced an upgrade of the country’s pharmacovigilance system to shift from passive to active surveillance of adverse drug reactions, urging pharmacists to take a leading role in reporting and public education.
Digitisation emerged as a major focus under the government’s Digital Health Superhighway initiative. Key reforms include the implementation of electronic prescriptions, digital dispensing, real-time drug utilisation dashboards, and national track-and-trace systems for medicines. Duale lauded Mombasa County for being the first to fully digitise its health system and encouraged others to follow suit.
Incorporating pharmacy services into the UHC benefits package is also a top agenda item. The government is working to ensure proper costing and reimbursement of services like dispensing, patient counselling, and chronic disease support. Duale revealed that two pharmacists have been appointed to the Social Health Authority’s Benefits Package and Tariff Advisory Panel to represent the profession.
To combat counterfeit drugs, Duale warned rogue operators and highlighted new digital tools aimed at preventing the circulation of fake medicines. He also announced the posting of 500 intern pharmacists and the establishment of a new directorate for Health Products and Technologies within the ministry.
Duale concluded by affirming plans to help the Pharmacy and Poisons Board achieve WHO Maturity Level 3 and expedite the Health Products and Technologies Authority Bill to modernise regulatory frameworks.
