The Kenyan government has announced the receipt of approximately 8 million doses of vaccines, alleviating the concerns of parents across the country. This comes after the government settled an outstanding debt of Ksh. 1.25 billion owed to UNICEF.
The Principal Secretary in the Medical Services Department of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Harry Kimtai, was present at the Kenya Central Vaccine Store in Kitengela to receive the consignment. He confirmed that the vaccines acquired with the Ksh. 1.25 billion payment would be sufficient to address the previous shortage and ensure that the country maintains an adequate stock.
“We have received all the required vaccines, specifically BCG, Polio, diphtheria, Tetanus, measles, and Rubella vaccines, and hence there should be no need to worry,” Mr. Kimtai stated.
The arrival of the vaccines has been met with relief and optimism from the medical community. Dr. Moses Mwangi, a renowned medic with over 30 years of experience, welcomed the move and highlighted the critical role vaccines play in preventing life-threatening diseases, thus ensuring the good health of children and the general populace.
Dr. Mwangi emphasized the importance of maintaining an uninterrupted supply of vaccines and urged the government to ensure that the vaccines reach even the most remote areas of the country. “Every child in every corner of the country should have uninterrupted access to these essential vaccines, and the government has the necessary logistics infrastructure established over many years of good work,” he stated.
This development marks a crucial step in safeguarding public health in Kenya, particularly for young children who rely on these vaccines to prevent various diseases. With the new consignment, the Ministry of Health aims to stabilize the vaccine supply chain and prevent future shortages.