Medical Services PS Ouma Oluga has challenged the Directorate of Health Products and Technologies (HPTs) to address recurring stockouts, eliminate substandard products and build public trust in health commodities.

Commodity security, the PS said while chairing a strategic meeting with the directorate, remains central to the delivery of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He called for renewed leadership, innovation, and alignment in the management of HPTs.

Dr Oluga emphasized the urgency of building resilient systems. “Health Products and Technologies management and local manufacturing are key. Our experience with centrally managed commodities—such as cancer drugs and Covid-19 supplies—has shown us the need for long-term sustainability.”

Speaking at Afya House yesterday morning, the PS urged the Directorate to align its plans with the Ministry of Health’s mandate and national priorities, by providing firm leadership, and ensuring safety of HPTs.

“Let the industry have confidence that our products are safe, as we ensure consistent access to vaccines and essential medicines. This is about restoring trust and delivering real outcomes,” urged Oluga as it emerged that dissemination of the updated Essential Medicines List is ongoing.

He also took stock of recent achievements by the Ministry, which include the development of national oxygen delivery guidelines, aimed at improving access to life-saving respiratory care.

According to the PS, a draft policy and bill on Traditional and Alternative Medicine are also under development.

“Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to invest in HPT research and support the safe integration of traditional medicine,” he revealed during the meeting which brought together key divisions under the Directorate—including Quality Assurance, HPTs, and Traditional and Alternative Medicine—to review progress and set strategic priorities.

In the meeting that was attended by Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth, HPTs Directorate Head, Dr Tom Menge, and other senior officials, some of the areas of focus included; promoting local pharmaceutical manufacturing, and strengthening national supply chain policy.

The officials also discussed the need for updating clinical guidance, and reviewing the Kenya National Pharmaceutical Policy.

But of critical importance is the finalising of four critical frameworks including local manufacturing strategy, national supply chain strategy and pharmacy benefits package.

Kenya has a history of experiencing stockouts of medical commodities, such as essential medicines, vaccines, and other health supplies. This has been a recurring issue, impacting the availability of essential healthcare services in public and private facilities.