The Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, has reaffirmed the government’s strong partnership with Merck in the ongoing fight against schistosomiasis, underscoring the collaboration’s importance in achieving Kenya’s long-term public health objectives.
During a meeting with Merck’s leadership team, Ms. Muthoni praised the company for its consistent support and commitment to combating neglected tropical diseases in Kenya. She acknowledged that Merck’s sustained donation of praziquantel, the primary drug used to treat schistosomiasis, has significantly improved access to treatment across affected communities. This initiative has played a crucial role in reducing the disease’s prevalence by over 50% between 2021 and 2023, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s public health progress.
The Principal Secretary further commended Merck’s investment in local pharmaceutical manufacturing through Universal Corporation Limited. The production of paediatric praziquantel within Kenya not only strengthens local capacity but also promotes self-sufficiency in the supply of essential medicines. According to Ms. Muthoni, this milestone aligns with the government’s broader strategy to enhance domestic pharmaceutical production and reduce dependency on imports.
She also highlighted the company’s contributions beyond tropical disease control, particularly its role in tackling non-communicable diseases. Merck’s efforts in this area complement the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda, which seeks to ensure that every Kenyan can access affordable, quality healthcare without financial hardship.
Both the Ministry of Health and Merck reaffirmed their mutual commitment to deepen collaboration across several fronts, including local manufacturing, digital health innovations, and community-based health interventions. These joint efforts are expected to enhance early diagnosis, improve treatment accessibility, and promote health education at the grassroots level.
Ms. Muthoni emphasized that public-private partnerships such as this one are essential to achieving a schistosomiasis-free Kenya and advancing national health goals. The strengthened partnership is set to drive continued progress in disease elimination, strengthen healthcare delivery systems, and improve overall community well-being — reflecting a shared vision of a healthier and more resilient nation.
