By Ivyn Kipruto
Kenya has stepped up efforts to establish itself as Africa’s leading centre for vaccine and drug manufacturing, with the government urging international investors to ta1ke advantage of the country’s growing competitiveness in the healthcare sector.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, made the call during a high-level breakfast meeting in Washington D.C organised by Kenya Vision 2030 in partnership with advisory firm Dalberg.
The forum brought together policymakers, healthcare leaders and investors exploring new frontiers in pharmaceutical innovation.
However, Dr. Oluga highlighted the Kenya Biovax Institute as a flagship initiative that demonstrates the government’s determination to build local production capacity for vaccines and essential medicines.
“Kenya is ready to partner with investors to build a resilient healthcare ecosystem that not only serves our nation but also positions us as a continental leader in pharmaceutical innovation and supply security,” Dr. Oluga stressed
Kenya’s push comes as African countries race to reduce dependence on imported drugs and vaccines, a challenge that was laid bare during the COVID-19 pandemic. By attracting strategic partnerships, Nairobi hopes to accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) while enhancing the continent’s long-term health security.
