The construction of the Sh3.2 billion Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (Kemsa) warehouse in Nairobi, which has been shrouded in controversy, is nearing completion.

Kemsa’s chief executive Jonah Manjari told People Daily in an interview the project is 80 per cent complete, adding that the agency is also in the process of devolving to counties to adequately serve the country.

“The project is aimed at ensuring the organisation makes significant contribution to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by ensuring sustainable availability of quality, safe and affordable essential medicines and medical supplies,” said Manjari.

Global Fund, Kemsa and the government are funding the warehouse which is being constructed in Embakasi, Nairobi. Devolving services Manjari said the agency was also in the process of devolving its services to counties in a bid to address the needs at the grassroots adequately.

With focus now shifting to the counties, Kemsa is expected to play a key role as the national government seeks to manage the disease burden in the country.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission is currently probing graft-related allegations in the construction of the warehouse. But Manjari insists that the construction is on course and will be completed before the end of the year as projected.

On Covid-19 management, Manjari said the agency has received materials donated by well-wishers and organisations worldwide to the health facilities. Donations have come from among others, The Jack Ma Foundation who despite allegations that the equipment were stolen at the JKIA, were received and distributed to the Public Health Emergency operations centre.

The donations from Jack Ma Foundation included, 47,55 face masks, surgical and face masks, protection clothing, test kits and face shields. They have all been distributed apart from 46 medical disposable clothing.

Others were from the government of Kenya, United Nations Children’s Fund , World Health Organisation, the United Nations, China, African Union , Korean Embassy, Roche and Stanbic.

However, donations from Unicef, which include, 105,941 N95 masks, cover -all protection, 29,540 pieces, 9,600 face shields and 290 thermometers have not been distributed.