Kenya on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, embarked on a groundbreaking journey with the launch of the Partnership for Education of Health Professionals (PEP) Programme at KMTC Gatundu Campus.
The initiative aims to revolutionize healthcare education and combat CardioMetabolic Diseases (CMDs) in the country.
Health Cabinet Secretary Nakhumicha S. Wafula, alongside his Public Service counterpart Moses Kuria and Principal Secretary Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, expressed profound gratitude to the Novo Nordisk Foundation for their invaluable support.
The CS also emphasized the pivotal role of the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in driving the implementation of this transformative programme.
“In light of the escalating global health threat posed by CMDs, particularly CardioVascular Diseases (CVDs), Kenya faces an urgent need to address these challenges,” she stated.
In addition, Nakhumicha highlighted the government’s dedication, led by President Dr. William Ruto, to enact legislation aimed at healthcare reform and accessibility enhancement.
Investment in Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Earlier in the day, the CS emphasized the critical need to invest in local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
She spoke during her participation in the 3-day Africa Vaccine Supply Manufacturing Forum.
The forum, attended by representatives from various African countries, served as a platform to address Africa’s vulnerability to disease outbreaks and heavy reliance on vaccine imports.
CS Nakumicha highlighted the urgency of bridging this gap by proposing the ramping up of local vaccine production. This, she emphasized, is essential to enhance Africa’s capacity to respond effectively to health emergencies, stimulate job creation, and foster innovation within the continent.
The forum aimed to strategize on fortifying vaccine manufacturing supply chains across Africa, with its primary objective being the development of a roadmap for future-proofing these chains.
Such initiatives are crucial for improving preparedness for future outbreaks and ensuring faster, more equitable vaccine access for affected populations.
