By Rosette Stacy
Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale, has called on pharmacists to take a leading role in the ongoing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) reforms under the Taifa Care program.
Speaking during the 45th Annual Scientific Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) in Mombasa, Duale laid out an ambitious agenda aimed at transforming Kenya’s healthcare system through professional leadership, innovation, and digitization.
The CS outlined five key priorities for pharmacists: boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing, strengthening regulatory frameworks, accelerating health digitization, enhancing pharmacovigilance, and integrating pharmacy services into the broader healthcare system.
“Pharmacists must move from the periphery to the core of health reforms. You are crucial in achieving safe, effective, and people-centered care,” said Duale.
In a significant move to address workforce gaps, Duale announced the deployment of 500 intern pharmacists across the country.
He also revealed that the Health Products and Technologies (HPT) unit had been elevated to a full directorate to strengthen supply chain efficiency and oversight.
Duale issued a stern warning against counterfeit drugs, emphasizing that the government is enhancing surveillance and regulatory enforcement to protect the public from unsafe pharmaceuticals.
The CS commended Mombasa County for achieving a fully digitized health system, describing it as a model for other counties.
He urged PSK to champion digitization and accountability in healthcare delivery.
“This is your moment,” he told pharmacists. “Lead innovation, drive compliance, and be the force that propels us to a healthier, tech-enabled future.”
This strategic pivot places pharmacists at the heart of Kenya’s UHC transformation, offering them a greater role in leadership, governance, and digital health solutions—while reaffirming their critical role in delivering accessible and quality healthcare services to all Kenyans.