Mombasa hospitals are experiencing severe drug shortages due to delayed supplies from KEMSA, the national pharmacy agency. The Department of Health cited late deliveries from suppliers as a key factor. Additionally, challenges with the TaifaCare digital system have hindered the management of drug distribution.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) has also raised concerns, reporting delays in receiving essential medications. These issues have left healthcare facilities struggling to meet patient needs. Some hospitals have had to ration medications, affecting treatment for patients with chronic conditions.
The problem has been ongoing for several weeks, with no clear resolution in sight. KEMSA has acknowledged the delays but has not provided a timeline for improvement. The TaifaCare system, designed to streamline healthcare logistics, has faced technical difficulties, further complicating the supply chain.
This situation highlights broader challenges in Kenya’s healthcare infrastructure. Previous reports have noted inconsistent supply chains and underfunding of public health systems. The current crisis has intensified pressure on local authorities to find alternative solutions. With no immediate relief in sight, the impact on patient care is expected to worsen.
