Kenya Calls for Stronger Medicine Supply Systems as MEDS Marks 40 Years
Kenya is strengthening medicine supply chains, quality-testing systems and timely financing of health facilities to ensure patients can consistently access safe, effective and affordable health products.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale reaffirmed this commitment as the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies marked its 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades of service since its establishment in 1986.
Hon. Duale said the success of Universal Health Coverage must ultimately be measured at the point of care, where every patient should be able to obtain medicines and health products that are safe, effective, affordable and meet the required quality standards.
He recognised MEDS’ contribution to Kenya’s health system through the sourcing, testing, quality assurance and distribution of essential medicines and health products.
MEDS has maintained World Health Organization prequalification since 2009. Its quality systems are further supported by ISO 9001:2015 certification and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation attained in 2024.
The Cabinet Secretary also highlighted the contribution of faith-based health facilities to healthcare delivery under the Social Health Authority framework.
A total of 876 faith-based facilities currently have active SHA contracts, with 530 actively using the system to transact. The facilities have submitted claims valued at KES 41.1 billion, of which KES 29.8 billion has been settled.
Hon. Duale said the progress recorded under SHA must be matched by continued improvements in claims processing and settlement. Reliable and timely payments are necessary to help health facilities maintain uninterrupted services and ensure essential medicines and supplies remain available.
He further noted that digital systems are improving accountability and visibility across the health sector. These reforms are being undertaken alongside Kenya’s efforts to strengthen its health systems and regulatory capabilities towards attaining World Health Organization Maturity Level 3.
As MEDS begins its fifth decade, the Cabinet Secretary called for renewed investment in resilient supply chains, a skilled and adequately equipped health workforce and strong independent quality-testing systems.
The anniversary celebrations also marked the launch of MEDS Devane Company Limited. The special-purpose vehicle will facilitate MEDS’ expansion into the private market and provide a platform for exploring additional opportunities within the healthcare sector.
Present were Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni; Kenya Medical Supplies Authority Chief Executive Officer Dr. Waqo Ejersa; Pharmacy and Poisons Board Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ahmed Mohamed; MEDS Chairperson Rt. Rev. Cleophas Oseso; and MEDS Chief Executive Officer Dr. Wycliffe Nandama.