Kenya is working on initiatives to grow its domestic pharmaceutical sector to significantly cut its dependence on imported medicines, which make up over 70% of the nation’s drug supply.
The initiative, proposed at the recent investors’ forum in Nairobi, focuses on offering long-term financing and equity support to domestic drug manufacturers via the state-owned Kenya Development Corporation (KDC).
The event brought together government representatives, industry leaders, and health specialists to boost local supply chains in response to increasing demand and escalating global risks.
Officials contend that reducing imports will relieve strain on foreign exchange reserves, safeguard the health system from both domestic and global supply interruptions, and decrease expenses for patients.
The Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion, Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, stated that KDC’s financing options are designed to help manufacturers modernize their facilities, grow their operations, and enhance the availability of medicines made in Kenya.
“The urgency of this paradigm shift is underscored by Kenya’s overreliance on imported medicines,” he said.
“Import dependency fuels foreign exchange pressure, exposes the market to supply disruptions, and inflates healthcare costs,” he added.
Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui emphasized the importance of cooperation between different ministries.
Kinyanjui noted that “no country can prosper solely through imports,” stressing that increasing local production is crucial for economic stability and reliable healthcare.
The initiative aligns with wider East African efforts to decrease reliance on imports.
However, experts warned that updating drug manufacturing plants and complying with international quality standards will demand continuous investment and strong regulatory backing.
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