Kenya has bolstered its healthcare arsenal with the recent receipt of Mpox testing kits and neglected tropical disease (NTD) medicines from key global health partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and USAID. The supplies are aimed at enhancing the country’s efforts to manage and reduce the burden of these diseases, especially in vulnerable regions.
Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah M. Barasa, acknowledged the significance of these medical contributions during the handover ceremony, noting that they will play a vital role in supporting ongoing efforts to combat NTDs. She emphasized the importance of mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns in controlling diseases like lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis, particularly in high-burden areas.
“The contributions from WHO and partners are crucial in reaching the communities that are most affected by these diseases. The upcoming MDA campaign will target the areas with the highest burden, ensuring that those who need these medicines the most receive them,” said Dr. Barasa.
The donation also includes Mpox testing kits from USAID, which will enhance Kenya’s capacity to detect and respond to potential cases. Mpox, a viral disease, has raised global concerns in recent years due to sporadic outbreaks, and having a robust testing capability will be key to managing its spread.
Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, WHO’s representative to Kenya, confirmed the donation of 15,215,000 tablets of NTD medicines, valued at USD 1.6 million, intended for this month’s MDA. He reiterated WHO’s commitment to helping Kenya achieve its target of eliminating NTDs such as schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases by 2030.
