KENYA— Kenya has an ambitious vision for Kenya to become East Africa’s leading pharmaceutical manufacturing hub by 2030, with the goal of exporting pharmaceuticals throughout the African continent.
This strategic objective aims to position Kenya as East Africa’s primary pharmaceutical manufacturing hub and pave the way for the exportation of pharmaceutical products across Africa.
The recent attainment of the Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma certification by Kenya Airways Cargo strengthens the country’s potential to transform pharmaceutical transport logistics and make significant strides towards its ambitious target.
Currently, Kenya’s domestic pharmaceuticals market boasts an impressive value of 100 billion shillings (US$730.7 million).
However, the local industry’s market share stands at a modest 30%, indicating room for growth and improvement.
While Kenya does export pharmaceuticals to the East Africa Community, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, and other regions within Africa, the value of these exports remains relatively low at 6.4 billion shillings (US$46.8 million).
Considering the vast African pharmaceutical market, estimated to exceed 1.4 trillion shillings (US$10.2 billion), Kenya’s current market share is a mere 0.46%.
To achieve the government’s vision of capturing a 5% share, valued at 68 billion shillings (US$496.89million), concerted efforts are required to address existing challenges within the pharmaceutical supply chain, with a particular focus on improving transport logistics.
Kenyan Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the urgent need for standardized protocols and regulations to ensure the seamless handling of pharmaceutical cargo, especially temperature-sensitive products, and time-critical deliveries.
The CEIV Pharma certification bestowed upon Kenya Airways Cargo by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) serves as a significant milestone in overcoming these challenges.
It recognizes the airline’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of pharmaceutical cargo transportation, particularly in terms of temperature control and product integrity.
The CEIV Pharma certification not only enhances Kenya Airways Cargo’s competitive position in the global pharmaceutical logistics market but also positions the airline as a preferred partner for the transportation of high-value and time-sensitive pharmaceuticals.
It serves as a catalyst for transforming the transport logistics landscape within Kenya and the broader African market, ensuring efficient and secure movement of pharmaceuticals throughout the supply chain.
With stringent handling protocols in place, pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, and healthcare providers can have confidence in Kenya Airways Cargo’s ability to deliver products safely and maintain their quality and integrity.
Aligned with the government’s vision, the CEIV Pharma certification reinforces Kenya’s aspirations to become a pharmaceutical manufacturing hub, attracting investment from multinational pharmaceutical companies seeking a reliable and compliant logistics partner.
Kenya’s strategic location, coupled with the certification’s assurance of adherence to international standards, positions the country as an appealing destination for pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution.
This recognition propels Kenya’s reputation within the African pharmaceutical ecosystem, opening up new opportunities for Kenya Airways Cargo to expand its pharmaceutical transport operations and cater to the increasing demand for high-quality pharmaceutical products across the continent.
To support the growth of the pharmaceutical sector and bolster the overall healthcare infrastructure, Murkomen assured continued government investment in the health sector and manufacturing industry.
This commitment reflects the government’s determination to fortify Kenya’s existing manufacturing capacity for health products, including medicines and associated medical consumables, catering to both domestic needs and export markets.
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