Newly appointed chairman of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) Irungu Nyakera, in a meeting with Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, outlined strategies that will be used to implement new reforms.
In a statement by the Ministry of Health on Tuesday, May 16, the new approach would be used to tackle the crises within the authority.
One of the strategies highlighted included ensuring transparency in the procurement of drugs by KEMSA.
Additionally, they noted that they would ensure accountability when distributing medical supplies.
“The two officials discussed various aspects of the reform process, including the need to ensure transparency and accountability in the procurement and distribution of medical supplies,” the statement read in part.
At the same time, Nyakera and Nakhumicha highlighted the importance of collaboration between the authority and the Ministry to ensure the reforms were effective and accessible healthcare.
“They emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in the health sector to ensure that quality healthcare services are accessible to all Kenyans.
"The government's commitment to ensuring that KEMSA's mandate is carried out effectively will undoubtedly improve healthcare services in Kenya & benefit the citizens,” the statement added.
In an earlier statement, Nyakera expressed his commitment to the role thanking President William Ruto for the appointment.
He stated that KEMSA had been riddled with graft for years, but he was ready to clean up the mess.
"Today, I wake up to a new role as the Chairperson of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority. I thank His Excellency President William Ruto for believing in me to deliver KEMSA from the mess.
"We will clean the mess, that I can assure Kenyans. It certainly won’t be easy, so help me God," stated Nyakera.
Ruto appointed Nyakera to the position on Monday, May 15, through a gazette notice after dissolving the previous board and revoking the appointment of the chairperson over a Ksh4 billion mosquito net supply scandal.
The move came after The Global Fund was forced to cancel a Ksh3.7 billion mosquito nets tender owing to KEMSA's irregular procurement process.
