PS Ouma Oluga rallies global investors to drive local vaccine, medicine manufacturing

Speaking at a high-level breakfast event organised by Kenya Vision 2030 in partnership with Dalberg, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, outlined Kenya’s ambition to become Africa’s leading hub for vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Dr. Oluga emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening local capacity, pointing to the establishment of the Kenya Biovax Institute as a flagship initiative that reflects Kenya’s determination to produce vaccines and essential medicines locally.

“Kenya is ready to partner with investors to build a resilient healthcare ecosystem that not only serves our nation but positions us as a continental leader in pharmaceutical innovation and supply security,” Dr Oluga said.

The PS convened investors, including Blue Orange Capital, Health For Development and International Finance Corporation of the World Bank Group, to discuss how to set up a  local manufacturing industry for medicines and medical supplies in Kenya through Kenya BioVax and KEMSA.

"This will create jobs for young people as well as ensure Kenya is leading Africa in the production of supplies needed to treat patients," said Dr Oluga.

The event brought together policymakers, healthcare leaders, and international investors, highlighting Kenya’s push to attract strategic partnerships.

These collaborations, the Ministry noted, are key to accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reinforcing the country’s role in safeguarding Africa’s health security.