The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health, led by Chair Hon. (Dr) Robert Pukose, conducted a fact-finding mission to the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) today to gather information and engage on issues affecting the pharmaceutical sector.
The committee were warmly received by Chairman Dr. Charles Githinji, Board members, and senior management led by CEO Dr.F.M Siyoi.
The fact-finding mission discussions revolved around bolstering PPB’s authority through the swift establishment of the Kenya Drug Authority, adequate budget allocation, staff recruitment to bridge gaps, improved clinical trials, and resolving legal overlaps.
Dr. Pukose and his team commended PPB’s pharmacovigilance system for being vigilant and ensuring only quality products circulate in the country. The board’s chair emphasized ongoing efforts to eliminate unlicensed pharmacies, with operations initiated earlier in the year. PPB aims to attain maturity level 3 and urged the committee to expedite the establishment of KDA to separate practice from products effectively.
PPB’s CEO Dr Siyoi highlighted the Board’s role in promoting local manufacturing, enhancing the legal and regulatory framework, and serving as a Regional Centre of Excellence in Africa for Pharmacovigilance. Additionally, PPB has established and operationalized 10 regional offices and 11 ports of entry.
