Kenya’s efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) are gaining momentum, with a renewed focus on strengthening the health supply chain system through strategic reforms at the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA). The government is emphasizing institutional efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness as the foundation for delivering health commodities reliably to counties and communities.
In a strategic engagement with KEMSA’s Board and senior management, a strong directive was issued to expedite ongoing reforms and align the agency with the transformative health agenda under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The push centers on building a high-performing and ethical institution that inspires public trust and delivers value in health service provision.
KEMSA’s role in ensuring a functional and responsive supply chain is central to the success of UHC. As part of this transformation, the agency has been urged to accelerate the finalization and implementation of regulations under the KEMSA Act. Equally critical is the activation of regional warehouses and the enhancement of last-mile delivery systems, which are essential for improving accountability, efficiency, and timely distribution of medical supplies.
The agency’s performance targets have been laid out clearly. These include attaining a throughput of KES 13 billion, increasing the Order Fill Rate (OFR) to above 90%, and achieving four stock turns annually. These metrics will not only improve service delivery but also contribute significantly to rebuilding public confidence in the national medical supply chain.
KEMSA has already made progress. The introduction of a shift-based operational system in the last quarter has reduced order turnaround times and improved the OFR from 39% to 51%. This improvement demonstrates a positive trajectory in the agency’s operational capacity and sets the pace for the next phase of reforms. With continued focus and investment, reaching a 100% OFR is now seen as an attainable goal especially crucial for the successful rollout of the national Taifa Care program.
Leadership within KEMSA has reiterated its commitment to the reforms. The agency is aligning its internal systems, workforce, and logistics to support the broader UHC agenda. Strong collaboration with county governments and other stakeholders is also being prioritized to ensure seamless delivery and integration across the national health system.
The drive to strengthen Kenya’s health supply chain is not just a bureaucratic overhaul it is a critical health intervention. By ensuring that hospitals and clinics across the country have timely access to quality medical supplies, the government is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more equitable future.
