Pharmaceutical Organisations have launched a report focusing on the need for collaboration of all stakeholders and actors within the healthcare space towards realizing universal healthcare in Kenya.
The Kenya Association of Pharmaceutical Industry (KAPI), with the support of the International Pharmaceutical Federation of Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), launched the report and called for a collaborative approach amongst the stakeholders to achieve Universal Health Care (UHC).
Speaking during the launch of the Report, the Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS), Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, re-stated the relevance of Universal Healthcare as a pillar within the government’s Big Four Agenda, citing the substantial gains so far realized since the launch of the UHC pilot phase.
While lauding the gains, Dr. Mwangangi noted that this positive development has been brought about through collaborative effort of both public and private sector players in the health sector, which initiative is being championed by KAPI with the ultimate goal of ensuring a people-centered healthcare system in the country.
KAPI Chairperson, Mr.Willy Soriney on his part noted that they believe together they can strengthen healthcare systems and achieve UHC over the next decade, ensuring everyone receives the care and treatment they need, and no one is left behind.
“KAPI remains committed to working with government and other stakeholders to evolve the health systems towards an envisioned ideal as espoused in the government’s UHC Agenda,” he said.
Soriney further called on stakeholders across sectors to come together to tackle the global challenges of healthcare systems.
“We must learn from one another and share our expertise. In doing so, we will establish meaningful partnerships to pool resources to ensure we play our part in helping the world achieve the SDGs over the next decade,” he added.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board CEO, Dr. Fred Siyoi, further reiterated the need for collaboration of KAPI and other stakeholders, with the government in order to evolve an appropriate health system that will accelerate the achievement of UHC in Kenya. He registered his full support, on behalf of The Board, towards this initiative.
The Report noted that the “The industry is a solution partner for countries to contribute capabilities and expertise to support governments and local stakeholders achieve shared goals.”
The KAPI report was endorsed by industry thought leaders including Dr. Eva Mubia Njenga, Chair Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), Greg Perry, Deputy Director General IFPMA, Dr. Karim Bendhaou, Chair African Engagement Committee, Anthony Mwangi, Cluster Head Novartis East Africa, and Mr. Julius Kirima of the Ministry of Industrialization, Trade & Enterprise Development.
By Alice Gworo
