Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) has pledged to promptly effect deliveries for drugs ordered by the West Pokot County government.
This comes after emerging public outcry that there were insufficient drugs within public health facilities in the county compelling many residents to seek medical services from private facilities.
Speaking during the handing over of a consignment of drugs at the Governor’s residence, KEMSA North Rift Sales and Marketing Officer Zacchaeus Muya said the authority was doing its best to ensure health facilities do not run out of stocks once they have made their orders.
“West Pokot has made an order of medicaments worth Sh70 million out of which we have today supplied Sh44.6 million worth in medical supplies estimated to benefit about 125 health facilities in the county. We shall supply the balance in the next three weeks,” said Muya, promising to build stronger partnerships with the county government so that residents have uninterrupted access to medical services in public facilities.
He noted that West Pokot unlike other counties has its own unique needs and challenges hence will be given priority whenever they place their orders.
“We acknowledge the fact that sometimes orders take long but we have agreed with the health committee that it should be within 14 days,” Muya stated.
The regional officer lauded the county government and health team for their understanding whenever there are some delays in supplies, noting that it has no outstanding debt for any supply.
Area Governor Prof. John Lonyangapuo assured residents of proper use of the received drugs since the county has already installed a working e-system for ease of monitoring and tracking of drugs and other medical services in county hospitals and dispensaries.
Lonyangapuo cautioned those planning to steal the drugs in hospitals or dispensaries that their days are numbered and anyone found will be prosecuted.
However, he encouraged members of the public to report and share evidence of any theft or suspicion of government drugs being sold in private chemists to facilitate necessary action.
Lonyangapuo ordered the county team in charge of health to ensure all health facilities in the region be supplied with essential drugs and medical equipment received.
According to West Pokot County Health CEC, Christine Apokoreng the county had had an experience of drug shortage and the consignment received is enough to meet the current needs at health facilities across the county.
By Richard Muhambe and Anthony Melly
