Duale warns against corruption in the Health sector as substandard drugs continue to cost lives

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has expressed serious concerns over the increasing threat posed by counterfeit and substandard drugs in Kenya, highlighting the severe impact on public health.

Speaking in Nairobi, Duale called on health regulators to ensure that no substandard medical products make their way into the country, emphasizing that the failure to address this issue is costing lives.

At a Performance Contract signing ceremony for the Financial Year 2024/2025, which involved Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs) and Regulatory Bodies under the Ministry of Health, Duale did not hold back in his condemnation of corruption in the sector, attributing it as a major driver of the ongoing issue.

"Counterfeit and substandard drugs are killing Kenyans. We cannot allow this to continue because of corruption," Duale warned.

He questioned why, despite years of investment, maternal mortality rates remain high in Kenya, with a particular focus on why some neighboring countries have made better progress.

"Why is the maternal mortality rate in Kenya still high, despite heavy investment? Why are women still dying during childbirth? It’s because the drugs being used are not the right ones," he said.

The CS pointed out that poor regulation and personal interests taking precedence over national welfare were among the root causes of the problem.

Duale called on all agencies under the Ministry of Health to demonstrate integrity and ensure efficient resource management.

He also addressed the challenges posed by resource limitations, particularly following the recent US Government Stop Work Order that affects several key humanitarian programs.

"We must adapt, innovate, and remain efficient in our duties despite the challenges," Duale urged.

Further, he reiterated the critical role of performance contracts in the public sector, stating that they align agencies with national priorities and foster a results-driven culture.

He expressed the urgency of implementing these contracts, especially with the rollout of the Social Health Insurance (SHI) schemes under TaifaCare, which he described as key to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The ceremony marked the beginning of a new phase in the health sector’s performance management, following previous agreements signed by the President and other Cabinet Secretaries.

Duale emphasized that no room for error should be allowed, particularly as the country works towards improving healthcare and tackling pressing issues such as the availability of essential drugs.