NAIROBI: Sep 29, 2026
The conversations at AfriSummit 2026 on strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing and building resilient supply chains are timely and critical to the future of healthcare in Kenya and across Africa.
At the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), we believe that health security must begin with the capacity to produce, supply and sustain the medicines and medical products our people need. A resilient health system cannot depend solely on external supply chains to meet the healthcare needs of its population.
Strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing presents an important opportunity to improve the reliability of medicine supplies, reduce vulnerabilities during health emergencies and support continuity of care for patients.
Building Partnerships for Health Security
Achieving these objectives requires strong collaboration between government, healthcare professionals, local pharmaceutical manufacturers and other stakeholders. Each has a role to play in creating an enabling environment for local production, dependable supply chains and access to essential medical products.
Healthcare professionals must also be part of these conversations. The medicines and medical products available to health facilities directly affect clinical decisions, service delivery and patient outcomes. Their perspectives are therefore essential in shaping policies that respond to the realities of healthcare practice.
From Dialogue to Action
A stronger local pharmaceutical industry can contribute to more secure supply chains, greater preparedness during public health emergencies and a more reliable healthcare system.
However, progress must extend beyond dialogue. Sustained collaboration and concrete action are needed to strengthen local manufacturing capacity, improve supply chain resilience and ensure that healthcare facilities can access the products required to deliver quality care.
As KMPDU, we remain committed to advocating for a healthcare system that prioritises patients, supports healthcare professionals and advances Kenya’s capacity to meet its own health needs.
Health security requires sustained investment, strong partnerships and action that delivers for patients. We must continue working towards a resilient healthcare system that leaves no patient behind.
