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The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has adopted new technology to ensure that medical products and commodities entering the country meet quality standards. To realize this goal, the board has acquired advanced Near Infrared (NIR) technology, known as Pillscan, to strengthen its efforts in safeguarding drug quality.
Provided by the Mission for Essential Medicines and Supplies, this equipment will be used for on-site screening of medical products at PPB regional offices and key entry points. The NIR technology is expected to enhance the detection of sub-standard and falsified medical products, further complementing PPB’s existing quality control measures.
According to the board, by incorporating NIR technology into its operations, the PPB aims to bolster its surveillance of the Kenyan pharmaceutical market and protect public health. The board has already conducted training for its staff, county pharmacists, and KEMSA personnel in an effort to align them with the new technology.
Renowned business leader and senior pharmacist Dr. Moses Mwangi praised PPB for this forward move, underscoring the importance of upscaling surveillance to protect Kenyans against the harmful effects of counterfeit medicine. “Medicine and medical products are essential in the comprehensive healthcare spectrum. It’s therefore very important to see to it that they comply and meet the required set standards. This will ensure Kenyans receive the highest level of healthcare,” he said.
The adoption of Pillscan technology marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical products in Kenya, demonstrating PPB’s commitment to public health and quality assurance in the pharmaceutical sector.
