KENYA- Bayer, a global leader in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, has announced a strategic partnership with Imperial Distributors to improve the distribution of its healthcare products across East Africa.
This initiative, known as “Smart Serve,” officially commenced on May 1, 2024, and aims to ensure that Bayer’s products are more accessible to patients and healthcare providers in Kenya and the surrounding region.
Jorge Levinson, Bayer’s Cluster Lead for the Pharmaceuticals Division in Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasized the significance of this collaboration.
“We are pleased with the transformation of our business model to collaborate with experts towards achieving our mission,” he stated.
Levinson highlighted that the partnership will streamline Bayer’s operations by outsourcing critical functions such as transportation, local warehousing, and customer support to Imperial.
This shift is expected to simplify the value chain, reduce lead times, and ultimately enhance the availability of Bayer’s products.
The decision to partner with Imperial follows Bayer’s earlier announcement about restructuring its Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health business models in East Africa.
This transformation is part of Bayer’s broader commitment to improve healthcare access in the region, which has challenged logistical inefficiencies and limited distribution networks.
“Our commitment to operate in Kenya and other markets remains steadfast, and this transformation is geared towards ensuring our mission of Health for All, Hunger for None,” Levinson added.
Imperial Distributors, recognized as a leading healthcare product distributor in Africa, brings extensive experience and established networks to this partnership.
By handling the distribution aspect of the value chain, Imperial will enable Bayer to focus on its core competencies, including medical affairs and stakeholder management.
This collaboration is expected to enhance the efficiency of product delivery and create additional employment opportunities within the region.
Levinson noted, “Through this model, we have also seen more professionals employed than we had employed directly.”
The initiative is particularly timely, as Africa faces significant healthcare challenges. According to the World Health Organization, the continent bears 25% of the global disease burden while accounting for less than 1% of total health expenditures.
By improving distribution, Bayer aims to address these disparities and ensure that essential healthcare products reach those in need more effectively.
Levinson also acknowledged potential disruptions during the transition to this new model, stating, “We do not underestimate the possible disruption, and we aim to minimize its effects where possible, remaining committed to always treat everyone with respect, dignity, and care.”
This proactive approach reflects Bayer’s dedication to maintaining strong relationships with its stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and government entities.
As the partnership unfolds, both Bayer and Imperial are optimistic about its positive impact on healthcare delivery in East Africa.
The Smart Serve initiative is designed to enhance the availability of Bayer’s products and contribute to the overall improvement of health outcomes in the region.
In summary, Bayer’s partnership with Imperial Distributors significantly enhances healthcare access in Kenya and East Africa.
By leveraging Imperial’s distribution expertise, Bayer aims to simplify its operations and ensure that its products are readily available to those who need them most.
This collaboration underscores Bayer’s commitment to improving health outcomes in a region facing numerous healthcare delivery challenges.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE