President William Ruto has introduced a bold strategy to transform the process of purchasing medications and other essential commodities in the public health sector. This initiative is part of the ambitious goals set by the Kenya Kwanza administration to address key public health sector issues within the next four years as part of the Vision 2030 projects. The President’s Fourth Medium Term Plan, spanning from 2003 to 2027, outlines the intention to establish a new body responsible for overseeing the procurement of health-related products.
The proposed entity, known as the National Health Procurement Board, aims to streamline the procurement process for public health sector commodities, including pharmaceuticals and drugs. This move signifies a shift from the current system towards a more efficient and effective approach to managing the procurement of essential health supplies. President Ruto’s administration is keen on enhancing the management of procurement processes to ensure the availability of quality health products for the public.
Despite the introduction of the National Health Procurement Board under the Kenya Kwanza Medium Term Plan, there remains uncertainty regarding the fate of the existing Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (Kemsa). While the Medium Term Plan emphasizes the government’s commitment to addressing procurement challenges in the public health sector, it is unclear whether the new board will absorb Kemsa’s roles and responsibilities. The move to establish the National Health Procurement Board reflects the government’s dedication to improving the procurement system and ensuring the efficient delivery of health commodities to the public.