Kenya targets 50pc local production of essential medicines
Kenya has launched a strategy to manufacture 50% of its essential medicines locally by 2030 to reduce import reliance. The initiative focuses on regulatory harmonization and strengthening the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Why it matters
Increasing local pharmaceutical production is vital for African health security and reducing dependence on global supply chains.
Kenya wants to manufacture at least half of its essential health products locally by 2030, in a major push to cut dependence on imports and build the country into a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing hub. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the target is part of the government's 2026 - 2030 Health Products and Technologies Local Manufacturing Strategy, which seeks to strengthen domestic production while improving access to quality and affordable medicines. "True access to health products demands reliable, quality-assured products made at home or closer to home," Duale said. Speaking in Nairobi during the sixth AfriSummit 2026 , Duale said increased local production must go hand in hand with stronger regulation to protect patients and ensure medicines meet required safety, quality and efficacy standards.
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