Nairobi, Kenya – January 12, 2026
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale met with the Board and Senior Management of the Kenya BioVax Institute. The meeting reaffirmed the government’s dedication to local vaccine manufacturing as a key element of Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) plan.
The Kenya BioVax Institute’s mandate is to manufacture and distribute safe, high-quality, and effective human vaccines, along with other essential health products and technologies. The Cabinet Secretary’s visit included a briefing on the Institute’s progress, including the anticipated release of Kenya’s first trial batch of locally manufactured vaccines by the end of 2027.
The first phase of the vaccine manufacturing facility, fully funded by the government, has been completed. The second phase is currently underway and involves project integration and the installation of equipment, including advanced fill-and-finish systems.
Kenya has achieved World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3, supported by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and the National Quality Control Laboratory (NQCL). This achievement establishes Kenya as a significant pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in Africa, strengthens regulatory oversight, and supports UHC goals. It also contributes to economic growth under the 5th Administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The Kenya BioVax Institute is expected to receive support from the World Bank through the Regional Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience (HEPRRP) programme. This initiative aims to improve Kenya’s pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities and enhance preparedness for public health emergencies.
During an engagement with Institute staff, the Cabinet Secretary emphasized the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service, referencing Article 232 of the Constitution. He stated that these values are crucial for delivering effective and people-centered healthcare.
The meeting was hosted by Kenya BioVax Institute Board Chairperson Dr. Charles Githinji and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Wesley Ronoh. Attendees included Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, and World Bank representative Dr. Bernard Olayo.
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