Kenya is set to save up to 60 percent on essential medicines used to treat diabetes, cancer, and infectious diseases through a new agreement with pharmaceutical company Pfizer.
The Kenya–Pfizer Accord, launched in Nairobi, aims to expand access to affordable, high-quality treatments within the country’s public health system.
The initiative will enable Kenya to procure over 140 medicines at not-for-profit prices, significantly lowering treatment costs in the public sector.
Health officials say the move could ease the financial burden on patients and improve access to life-saving therapies, especially for low-income populations.
Speaking at the launch, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga said the agreement marks a step forward in efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He also highlighted ongoing reforms, including new laws to strengthen healthcare quality and the formation of a Social Health Authority, as part of broader health sector transformation.
To support implementation, the Ministry of Health plans to roll out in-service training to enhance the competence of healthcare workers, reduce clinical errors, and improve patient outcomes.
Investments in clinical trials and research infrastructure are also being prioritized to bolster local innovation and evidence-based care.
The Kenya–Pfizer Accord is part of a wider effort to build a more resilient and inclusive health system, with a focus on ensuring that cost is not a barrier to essential treatment.
