Kenya Calls for Harmonization of African Health Product Regulations
Pharmacy and Poisons Board Chairperson Dr. John Munyu urged African regulators to harmonize their systems and strengthen reliance to improve access to health products.
In Brief
- •Pharmacy and Poisons Board Chairperson Dr. John Munyu urged African regulators to harmonize their systems and strengthen reliance to improve access to health products.
- •Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale stressed the need for regulatory collaboration, local manufacturing, and reduced reliance on imports to build Africa's pharmaceutical future.
- •Kenya is implementing a 2026–2030 Health Products and Technologies Local Manufacturing Strategy, targeting local production of at least 50% of essential health products.
- •13 new pharmaceutical companies have commenced operations in Kenya, with some already producing products for export.
- •Kenya is strengthening systems to ensure the safety and traceability of health products in the market.
Why It Matters
The call for regulatory harmonization and increased local manufacturing is crucial for Africa to reduce its reliance on imported health products, which currently account for over 70% of its consumption. This shift is expected to enhance public health protection, inspire confidence in African-made products, and ensure timely access to safe and affordable health products. Additionally, strengthening local manufacturing will create economic opportunities and reduce vulnerabilities in the supply chain.
Key Details
- Current Import Percentage
- 70%
- Target Local Production
- 50%
- New Pharmaceutical Companies
- 13
- Implementation Strategy
- 2026–2030 Health Products and Technologies Local Manufacturing Strategy
Context & Background
Africa's pharmaceutical industry has long relied heavily on imports, which has led to vulnerabilities in the supply chain and limited access to affordable health products. The call for regulatory harmonization and increased local manufacturing is part of a broader effort to build a more resilient and sustainable pharmaceutical sector in Africa.
Original Reporting & Sources
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