The Ministry of Health has dismissed reports circulating online claiming that Kenya is facing a looming medicines crisis due to a supposed plan to block the importation of over 21,000 medical products.

In a statement released on Sunday, October 5, 2025, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) termed the claims “false and misleading,” saying they were designed to cause unnecessary public alarm. The regulator clarified that there is no blockade of medicines in Kenya and that all approved medical products remain available in the market.

According to the PPB, about 9,000 registered medical products that meet both national and international safety and quality standards are currently retained for local manufacture, importation, and distribution.

“These products are not affected in any way, and there is no cause for concern regarding medicine shortages,” the board said.

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The statement explained that the ongoing process requiring companies to renew their product registrations by December 31, 2025, is a standard regulatory procedure. This renewal, which takes place every five years, helps the board confirm that only products meeting current international standards of quality, safety, and efficacy remain in circulation.

“This is a routine regulatory measure, not a ban or restriction on medicines,” the board emphasised. It added that the renewal requirement follows stakeholder consultations held earlier this year.

PPB vows firm action

The regulator further noted that efforts to rid the market of unregistered, falsified, or substandard medical products have faced resistance from certain individuals and cartels keen on protecting their business interests. Despite this, the PPB said it will remain firm in its commitment to safeguard the integrity of the country’s pharmaceutical sector.

“The Board continues to work closely with local manufacturers, importers, and other healthcare stakeholders to ensure continuous access to essential and life-saving medicines for all Kenyans,” the statement read.

The PPB also urged Kenyans, healthcare professionals, and the media to ignore misinformation being shared on social media. It advised the public to rely only on official communication channels for accurate updates regarding the regulation of medicines.

“The Pharmacy and Poisons Board will continue to communicate transparently and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure sustained access to safe, quality, and effective medical products,” the statement concluded.