Health Ministry announces Sh1.2bn allocation to procure vaccines amid nationwide shortage

The Ministry of Health has announced an allocation of Sh1.25 billion has been set aside to urgently procure routine antigens and replenish lifesaving vaccines in health facilities.

The move comes after the Ministry of Health announced a nationwide vaccine shortage, revealing critical stockouts that could significantly impact public health.

In a statement on Thursday, Principal Secretary of State Department for Medical Services Harry Kimtai reported that the national stock of key vaccines is critically low.

He said less than two months' supply remains for traditional vaccines such as the BCG Vaccine, Oral Polio Vaccine, and Measles Rubella Vaccine.

“Despite logistical challenges from the current heavy rains, the Ministry and partners are fast-tracking the shipment of vaccines, expected to arrive by the first week of June 2024,” he said.

Additionally, mechanisms for “accelerated transition planning” from Gavi support are being set up, including exploring innovative options for sustainable financing of vaccine procurement and programme operations.

In addition, supplies of other essential childhood vaccines, including those supported by Gavi (Pneumococcal, Rotavirus, HPV, and Malaria vaccines), are dwindling, with only three to six months of stock available.

“These stockouts put our children and vulnerable populations at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases and potential outbreaks,” Kimtai said.

Despite the shortages, the Ministry emphasised the importance of immunisation as a fundamental public health intervention and reassured the public of its commitment to resolving these issues.

To manage the current situation, Kimtai said the Ministry is tracking vaccine consumption at all levels nationally and facilitating redistribution between counties to alleviate the stock-out situation.

“As an urgent stop-gap measure, the National Vaccines and Immunisation Program (NVIP) is redistributing current stocks of available routine vaccines across the country to ensure eligible children do not miss vaccinations during this critical period,” he said.

The Ministry has also engaged UNICEF to expedite the delivery of vaccines ordered after the last payment.

He further said they are engaging the National Treasury to ensure increased and dedicated resources are allocated to the immunisation programme.

Kimtai emphasised that ring-fencing domestic resources will ensure sustainable financing for immunisation, especially as donor support for vaccines continues to decrease.

During this period, the Ministry is coordinating closely with healthcare workers and keeping them informed on measures to alleviate the current situation.

“We urge all caregivers to liaise closely with their healthcare providers and bring their children back to the facilities once stock levels have normalised. We understand the importance of maintaining an uninterrupted supply of vaccines and are taking every necessary step to address the current stock challenges,” he said.

He noted that Kenya has benefited from a robust immunisation system for over 44 years, and they are dedicated to ensuring future generations enjoy full and healthy lives.

“Our goal is to ensure that all Kenyans have access to life-saving vaccines and maintain high immunization coverage nationwide. We appreciate the public's patience and cooperation as we work through these challenges and continue to provide essential immunisation services.”