The government, through the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB), has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that Kenya plans to block over 21,000 medical products from being imported into the country.

The Board termed the reports as false, misleading, and aimed at creating unnecessary public panic over a purported shortage of medicines.

In an official statement, the PPB, which is the National Medicines Regulatory Authority established under the Pharmacy and Poisons Act, Cap 244, emphasized that there is no blockade of medicines in the country.

It assured Kenyans that essential and life-saving drugs remain fully available across health facilities.

“The claim that the Board intends to block over 21,000 medical products is false, misleading, and intended to cause unwarranted public anxiety,” the statement read.

No Cause for Alarm

The PPB clarified that it has retained approximately 9,000 registered medical products that meet both national and international safety, efficacy, and quality standards.

These products, it said, continue to be available for local manufacture, importation, and distribution without any interference.

“There is no cause for concern regarding medicine shortages. The Board continues to work closely with manufacturers, importers, and healthcare stakeholders to ensure continuous access to essential medicines,” PPB stated.

The regulatory agency further explained that the ongoing review of drug registrations is a routine regulatory procedure conducted every five years in accordance with the Pharmacy and Poisons (Registration of Health Products and Technologies) Rules, 2022.

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Routine Renewal, Not a Ban

The PPB outlined that the renewal process allows the Board to confirm that only products meeting updated international standards remain on the Kenyan market.

Market Authorization Holders have been advised to renew their product registrations by December 31, 2025.

“This process is a routine regulatory measure, not a ban or restriction on medicines,” the Board clarified, adding that the initiative aligns with global best practices to ensure quality healthcare products.

Targeting Illegal Importers

The Board also revealed that its intensified crackdown on illegal importers and counterfeit products has attracted resistance from a few unscrupulous individuals and cartels keen on safeguarding their vested interests.

“Despite resistance, the Board remains firm in its commitment to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s pharmaceutical sector and protect the health and well-being of every Kenyan,” the statement read.

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The PPB urged the public, healthcare professionals, and the media to disregard the misleading online reports and instead rely on official PPB communication channels for accurate information.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and collaboration with stakeholders in ensuring sustained access to safe, quality, and effective medical products for all Kenyans.

Health CS Aden Duale at Parliament during the Cabinet vetting process. PHOTO/ Duale X