KEMSA releases ARVs targeting one million HIV patients after concerns over US aid cuts
The supplies will be distributed through a partnership with the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies, ensuring their efficient delivery to those in need.
The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) has announced the release of a consignment of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) aimed at benefiting over one million Kenyans, ensuring continuous HIV treatment amid concerns regarding funding cuts.
Concerns had arisen over Kenya’s ability to maintain HIV treatment programmes following the suspension of funding for certain global health initiatives by the United States under the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
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However, Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa reassured the public that the country has adequate ARVs and testing kits to last from several months to up to two years.
“We are pleased to report that we have secure stock levels of key ARVs and testing kits, with supplies ranging from several months to nearly two years,” she stated on Friday.
The CS confirmed that Kenya currently has sufficient stocks of TLD, paediatric ARVs, Nevirapine suspension, and various HIV testing commodities.
The country has also secured a consistent supply of early infant diagnosis and viral load testing reagents.
Local innovations
“I am confident that our country can sustainably manage the HIV response through local innovations and strong leadership,” Barasa said.
Alongside the ARVs, the flagged-off consignment comprises tuberculosis (TB) medication and malaria drugs.
These supplies will be distributed through a partnership with the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS), ensuring their efficient delivery to those in need.
The Health Ministry is concentrating on enhancing local manufacturing of pharmaceutical and healthcare products to reduce reliance on external support.
It is also working on integrating HIV patients into the national health insurance scheme and adopting digital solutions for the effective tracking and distribution of medical supplies.
Barasa emphasised the importance of community involvement in the fight against HIV, asserting that empowering communities will aid in addressing stigma and improving access to treatment.
During the flag-off ceremony, KEMSA Chief Executive Officer Waqo Ejersa stressed that the collaboration with MEDS will facilitate the smooth distribution of life-saving drugs across the country.
“The impact of today’s flag-off extends beyond immediate disease control — it is a stride towards data-driven healthcare delivery in Kenya,” Ejersa remarked.
He also expressed gratitude to the US government, particularly through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), for its support of Kenya’s healthcare system.
Ejersa reiterated KEMSA’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in the distribution of essential drugs and medical supplies.
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