MPs launch one-week probe into Polio, BCG vaccine shortage
The Parliamentary Committee on Health, chaired by James Nyikal, has been ordered to deliver a full report within a week.
The National Assembly has launched a fast-tracked investigation into the distribution of polio and BCG vaccines across the country following a nationwide shortage that has alarmed both health professionals and lawmakers.
The Parliamentary Committee on Health, chaired by James Nyikal, has been ordered to deliver a full report within a week.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said the shortage poses a serious risk to infants and vulnerable communities, and that the government must go beyond confirming vaccine arrival and prove proper delivery across all hospitals.
"I did call the PS for Health and confirmed there was a shortage, but he said the vaccines had arrived at JKIA and would be distributed across all hospitals," Wetang’ula told the House.
However, he dismissed that assurance as insufficient and directed the Health Committee to evaluate the efficiency, reach, and timeliness of the distribution process.
"Dr Nyikal, in view of the importance of this, I direct you to bring a report on Tuesday next week. I will not give you the luxury of two weeks," he said.
"The response should not just be to tell us vaccines have landed in the country, but to demonstrate the level of distribution to every hospital, from the national to the local level. Children are born in every corner of this country and are entitled to these important vaccines."
The Ministry of Health has confirmed the shortage and said it is working with county governments to redistribute newly arrived vaccine stocks.
In a statement released on June 6, the PS for Medical Services, Dr Ouma Oluga, said efforts are ongoing to restore supply across the country.
"The Ministry is actively redistributing available vaccine stocks in collaboration with the County Government to ensure equitable access to all Kenyans in all regions," said Dr Oluga.
He linked the shortage to global vaccine supply challenges that have affected many countries.
To avoid similar crises in the future, the Ministry is setting up a strategic vaccine reserve for all 47 counties to ensure faster response during shortages.
