A major milestone was reached today in Kenya’s pharmaceutical industry as stakeholders confirmed the feasibility of implementing bioequivalence (BE) requirements in the country.
During a validation meeting, representatives from various sectors, including the Ministry of Health, Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), and local pharmaceutical manufacturers, came together to discuss a new chapter in drug manufacturing and regulation.
The consensus reached at the meeting marks a significant step toward ensuring that high-quality, locally produced medicines meet international standards.
The initiative is being backed by a number of development partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), USAID, and the World Bank, whose involvement underscores the importance of strengthening Kenya’s healthcare sector.
The consultancy, conducted by Penam Ltd for the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB), was funded by BMGF through the Supporting Health Initiatives (SHI) division of the Witwatersrand Health Consortium based at the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa.
This development signifies a collective effort to bolster Kenya’s pharmaceutical industry, enhance public health, and ensure the long-term availability of safe, effective, and affordable medicines across the region.
The collaborative spirit demonstrated by the various stakeholders will play a key role in ensuring that bioequivalence standards are met, further positioning Kenya as a leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing in Africa.
