Kenya’s Revital acquires WHO prequalification for AD Syringes

KENYA—Revital Healthcare EPZ, the largest manufacturer of auto-disabled syringes in East Africa, has received World Health Organization (WHO) Prequalification for its auto-disabled (AD) syringes.

This certification marks a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to provide high-quality medical devices that meet global standards.

WHO Prequalification is a rigorous assessment process designed to ensure that health products meet international quality, safety, and performance criteria.

This recognition not only enhances confidence in the safety and reliability of these syringes but also facilitates their adoption in immunization programs worldwide.

Products that receive WHO Prequalification are eligible for use in any country’s immunization program and are recommended by UN agencies for procurement through the WHO Catalogue of Prequalified Immunization Devices.

Revital Healthcare’s AD syringes are specifically designed for large-scale vaccination programs.

 These syringes automatically lock after a single use, preventing reuse and reducing the risk of infections caused by contaminated needles.

By improving the safety of vaccinations, they play a crucial role in strengthening public health efforts, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

So far, WHO has prequalified around 1,500 medical products, including in vitro diagnostics (IVDs), male circumcision devices, medicines, vaccines, cold chain equipment, and vector control products.

These prequalified items are instrumental in advancing global health, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to essential medical supplies.

Revital Healthcare’s achievement aligns with the Africa CDC’s goal of expanding local manufacturing and innovation within the continent’s health sector.

Notably, the company is the first in East and Central Africa to produce medical devices, solidifying its position as a key player in Africa’s medical equipment industry.

Currently, Revital Healthcare exports over 50 different medical devices to more than 30 countries worldwide, further demonstrating its capacity to meet both regional and international healthcare demands.

The company has also played a vital role in Africa’s response to COVID-19, showcasing the potential of African manufacturers to supply critical medical products during global health crises.

This success reflects a broader movement towards strengthening Africa’s health systems through self-sufficiency and local production.

To support this vision, several key organizations and initiatives have been established, including the Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing, the African Medicines Agency, the African Medical Supplies Platform, and the Africa Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation.

These bodies work towards enhancing local manufacturing capabilities, with the goal of producing 60% of Africa’s vaccine needs by 2040.

However, achieving a self-reliant Africa requires coordinated efforts among governments, regulatory bodies, and manufacturers.

 Effective policies, investment in infrastructure, and strategic partnerships will be crucial in ensuring sustainable markets and a steady supply of high-quality medical products across the continent.

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