Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has intensified efforts to clamp down on the unauthorized distribution, wholesale, and transportation of pharmaceuticals, in collaboration with the National Police Service, the enforcement operation aims to strengthen the regulation of pharmaceuticals across Kenya.
PPB officials issued stern warnings to unlicensed courier services, motorbike operators, and public transport providers against transporting pharmaceuticals without proper authorization.
Led by Head of Enforcement and Surveillance, Mr. Julius Kaluai, PPB emphasized the importance of regulatory compliance, noting that unlicensed wholesalers, distributors, and transporters must meet national standards or face disciplinary measures.
“This intensified action follows a recent nationwide audit of health facilities aimed at identifying and addressing malpractices within the pharmaceutical sector.”
Mr. Kaluai stated that data gathered during the surveillance would help pinpoint patterns in illegal pharmaceutical activities, enabling intelligence-based enforcement to better target these issues.
He also highlighted the need for closer collaboration between PPB and other government agencies at border points to prevent the entry of unregistered pharmaceuticals, further strengthening safeguards for public health.
Additionally, Mr. Kaluai issued a notice to retail outlets operating unauthorized online pharmacies, urging them to register their premises according to the services they provide. He warned that all non-compliant entities would face strict enforcement measures to protect the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected illegal activities within the sector. This call to action aligns with the PPB’s commitment to reducing health risks associated with medication errors due to non-compliant distribution and transportation practices.
