Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called on the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to prioritise timely deliveries of essential drugs to counties.
Lusaka expressed concern over instances where KEMSA supplies irrelevant drugs that expire in storage, neglecting frequently prescribed medications.
“We need KEMSA to deliver the drugs we order,” he emphasized during the launch of the KEMSA Kisumu regional distribution centre catering for the 12 counties within the lake region economic bloc.
“This will ensure we achieve Universal Health Coverage and foster a healthier society,” he added.
He further urged KEMSA to address delays in supplying crucial drugs, highlighting the need for prompt deliveries based on county requests.
While acknowledging KEMSA’s ongoing improvements in the wake of past corruption scandals, Lusaka commended the organization’s positive transformation.
“The ongoing reforms at KEMSA are akin to shock therapy, and they have demonstrably improved the organization’s image,” he remarked.
The lake region economic bloc’s vice chair also acknowledged the shared concern among governors regarding drug shortages.
“Let’s prioritise fixing the healthcare sector; this will ensure the smooth operation of all other development projects,” he said.
Lusaka pointed out the ongoing friction between national and devolved units, particularly when core devolved functions like healthcare are not fully relinquished.
He reassured Kenyans that despite existing arrears, counties are committed to fulfilling their financial obligations to ensure consistent drug supplies.
“Our primary responsibility is to provide our people with the medication they need to lead healthy lives,” he concluded.
The event was attended by Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha and KEMSA board chair Irungu Nyakera among other senior national and county officials.
In her address, CS Nakhumicha emphasised the pivotal role of the distribution centre in reducing procurement turnaround times and ensuring the availability of quality medical products.
“The initiative aligns with the government’s agenda for Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and national development, with a keen focus on improving access to affordable healthcare for all Kenyans,” the ministry said in a statement.
