KEMSA commits to enhancing medical supply chain efficiency

The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) is making strides in ensuring commodity security as part of the country’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, in Mombasa, on the current state of medical supply distribution, KEMSA’s CEO, Dr. Waqo Ejersa reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to improving efficiency and addressing challenges in the supply chain.

Dr. Ejersa noted that KEMSA’s current order fill rate stands at 56%, with back-order fulfillment pushing the figure up to 65%. However, the target remains between 80% and 90%, a goal the authority is actively working towards. “We are on our way there,” the CEO emphasized, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency in the procurement and distribution of essential medical supplies.

A key challenge facing KEMSA is the issue of outstanding debts by counties and other stakeholders.

The CEO confirmed that discussions with county governments and relevant authorities are ongoing to expedite the settlement of these debts.

Utilizing legal frameworks such as the Facility Improvement Fund and the Social Health Authority, KEMSA aims to stabilize its financial standing to ensure seamless supply operations.

Similarly, he mentioned that the fighting corruption was at the forefront of KEMSA’s agenda outlining measures such as automation and cultural transformation to eliminate malpractices within the authority.

“We are having culture change discussions this week, involving both the board and management, to instill a new mindset. Since COVID-19, corruption concerns escalated, but under the leadership of our chair, we are ensuring that corruption is a thing of the past at KEMSA,” the CEO stated.

On his part KEMSA Board Chair Samuel Tunai said the authority plays a crucial role in supporting the Kenya Kwanza government’s health agenda.

He emphasized that the authority remains committed to the success of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) program, which currently has 19.5 million Kenyans enrolled.

“As KEMSA, we have a very critical role to play in ensuring the success of this program. Our priority is to guarantee the availability of medicines across the country,” Tunai added.