The Ministry of Health is allaying any fears of a shortage of essential drugs – that is malaria, HIV/AIDS and TB – in the country for at least one year.
Health CS Deborah Barasa says there should not be any cause for alarm for those affected as the Government is working round the clock to make sure this essential medication is readily available when needed.
Speaking at the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS) headquarters on Friday morning, when she flagged off a convoy of over 30 vehicles that would go across the country to supply the needed drugs to hospitals, CS Barasa enumerated the availability of key medicine, including male condoms, that would suffice for about 2 years, in the case of some medication as the country now seeks local solutions.
Together with public health and professional standards PS Mary Muthoni, they have shrugged off any rumours or connotations of a crisis occasioned by the exit of USAID that has so far affected millions of Kenyans.
In this latest move, the government has partnered with MEDS to distribute the medication.
MEDS MD says they have agreed with PEPFAR to distribute the medication and give them the bill as a ray of hope for continued collaboration with the US government.
However, the government is insisting on having homegrown solutions, akin to making medication here, to enhance its shock absorbers in the event such actions are taken.
On Wednesday, the Government in a meeting with the Council of Governors, had indicated that it was seeking kes. 1.2 billion shillings for distribution, on top of seeking approval from the US Government.
However, on this one, the US Government has given MEDS a proceed order, agreeing to pay for distribution.
There are also collaborative plans with local manufacturers to ensure some of the drugs are produced locally.
Consequently, CS Barasa has confirmed the Government, through her ministry, is already procuring some of the key medications whose capacity is the next four months
