Kenya's Commitment to Local Health Product Manufacturing for Universal Health Coverage

Nairobi, Kenya - 9th October 2023 - The Principal Secretary for State Department for Medical Services Mr. Harry Kimtai convened a consultative meeting today with local Health Products and Technologies (HPT) manufacturers. 

This meeting is in preparation for a two-day exhibition showcasing locally manufactured health products and technologies, highlighting their role in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). 

Mr. Kimtai emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza government, under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), is dedicated to promoting investment and growth in the local manufacturing of health products.

This strategic move aims to ensure commodity security, directly contributing to the realization of UHC. It also has the potential to improve health outcomes, drive economic development through job creation, and enhance Kenya's competitiveness regionally and globally. 

Kimtai stressed the critical importance of health products, emphasizing their life-saving nature and the need for their availability in the right quantity, quality, and at an affordable price.

Promoting local manufacturing not only guarantees availability and affordability but also strengthens the country's resilience against unforeseen emergencies and global disruptions.

In his closing remarks, the Principal Secretary urged local manufacturers to produce high-quality products that can compete on international standards. He also encouraged their active participation in the legislative process, recognizing them as key stakeholders in the sector.