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KEMSA takes medical supplies to Wajir to prevent shortages

Medical supplies are received at a warehouse in Wajir municipality on February 7, 2024, ahead of distribution to health facilities across the county. (Photo: Yunis Dekow)

By Yunis Dekow | Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Among the supplies being distributed are essential antibiotics for prevalent infections, and life-saving treatments for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) and parties in the private sector on Wednesday started distributing essential items in Wajir County to address potential shortages and ensure consistent supply.

Heavy rains resulting from the El Nino phenomenon wreaked havoc in the county, particularly damaging its roads and limiting access.

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Mohamed Abdullahi Guhad, the county's chief officer for medical services, noted that the initiative by KEMSA and the private sector will ensure the provision of integrated high-quality promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative health care services.

"Our goal is to prevent interruptions in healthcare by providing a diverse range of medications, from essential antibiotics to life-saving treatments. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing the quality of care in Wajir County," he said, noting that the maintenance of ample medication stocks will enable healthcare professionals to operate efficiently.

Medical supplies are received at a warehouse in Wajir municipality on February 7, 2024, ahead of distribution to health facilities across the county. (Photo: Yunis Dekow)

Among the supplies being distributed are essential antibiotics for prevalent infections, and life-saving treatments for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

The process involves planning and coordination, with dedicated teams overseeing inventory management and transportation logistics. They will ensure timely deliveries to all health facilities.

"Comprehensive assessments of health facility needs have been conducted, considering common ailments and critical conditions. This ensures a well-rounded inventory tailored to each area’s health requirements," Guhad said.

Medical supplies are pictured at a warehouse in Wajir municipality on February 7, 2024, ahead of distribution to health facilities across the county. (Photo: Yunis Dekow)

Emphasising the county's commitment to monitoring and evaluating the distribution's impact on healthcare services, Guhad said mechanisms are in place, including receiving regular feedback from health facilities.

He also noted plans to leverage the use of technology for real-time tracking of shipments, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries.

"This will help us assess the distribution's impact, track medication use, and refine our strategies for future distributions," he said, adding the technology will enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and facilitate a smoother distribution workflow.

Diverse communication channels will be used to inform residents of the exercise and its importance.

"We will use a multi-faceted communication approach, including community meetings, local radio broadcasts, and informational posters at health facilities," Guhad said.