Kenya, China sign Sh65bn deal to boost local vaccine manufacturing
The deal was unveiled on Monday, June 9, 2025, during a high-level engagement between Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and a Chinese delegation headed by China's Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan.
Kenya is poised to take the lead in Africa's vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing, thanks to a groundbreaking Sh65 billion agreement with China that will see the establishment of modern production facilities by 2028.
The deal was unveiled on Monday, June 9, 2025, during a high-level engagement between Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and a Chinese delegation headed by China's Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan.
CS Duale noted that the investment will tap into cutting-edge Chinese technology to enhance local pharmaceutical capacity, reduce reliance on imported medical products, and create new job opportunities.
“This partnership is a game-changer not just for access to medicine, but for our healthcare sovereignty, national security, and long-term resilience,” said Duale.
He added, "By working with China, we are building the capacity to produce essential vaccines and medicines locally, ensuring that our citizens benefit from accessible and affordable healthcare."
The Cabinet Secretary said the agreement is set to transform Kenya into a leading pharmaceutical hub in Africa by 2028, with the capacity to produce essential vaccines and medicines locally.
He highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative, noting that it would help safeguard the country against disruptions in global supply chains, especially during health emergencies such as pandemics.
“Our ambition is to turn Kenya into a regional center for the manufacturing of health products. It’s time we moved from being heavy importers to becoming creators, exporters, and trailblazers in healthcare innovation,” he stated.
During the meeting, the Chinese delegation also unveiled an offer of 500 fully funded scholarships for Kenyan students to pursue studies in health sciences in China, along with 20 annual exchange programs targeting healthcare professionals.
“This is a significant investment in the next generation of health sector leaders,” CS Duale remarked.
He said the initiative will equip young Kenyans with world-class skills and global exposure, positioning the country to lead in both healthcare delivery and policymaking.
Duale further proposed the establishment of a Kenya-China Health Cooperation Taskforce to oversee the partnership’s implementation, align strategic goals, and expedite bilateral commitments.
"We want this collaboration to be action-oriented. A dedicated taskforce will ensure these agreements translate into tangible results," he said.
Emphasizing Kenya’s move toward sustainable healthcare financing, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale called on China to support the country’s shift from donor reliance to joint investment in health innovation.
“We’re moving away from waiting for aid and embracing a model of co-investment, developing solutions that serve both our nations. Let’s innovate together,” he said.
Duale also updated the Chinese delegation on the ongoing healthcare reforms under the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), a cornerstone of Kenya’s universal health coverage (UHC) agenda.
He commended Chinese companies, particularly Huawei, for their impactful contributions to Kenya’s health sector.
"Huawei’s work in digitizing rural healthcare and training thousands of health workers reflects true partnership. We encourage more companies to follow this example," he said.
The strategic dialogue was also attended by Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, CBS, and Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth.
