Kenya is set to strengthen its local vaccine manufacturing ambitions after Japan pledged Sh3 billion to support research, production capacity and pharmaceutical innovation under an expanded health partnership between the two countries.
The funding commitment was announced during a meeting between Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga and members of the Kenya-Japan Joint Technical Working Group (TWG), led by Japan’s Chargé d’Affaires Hori Tomonobu, in Nairobi.
The discussions reviewed ongoing collaboration in the health sector while outlining new areas of cooperation aimed at improving Kenya’s pharmaceutical industry and expanding access to locally manufactured vaccines.
Funding to strengthen vaccine production
Dr. Oluga welcomed Japan’s financial support, saying the resources will be channelled through the State Department for Medical Services in partnership with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
According to the Principal Secretary, the investment will strengthen Kenya’s capacity to develop and manufacture vaccines by financing modern research facilities, advanced laboratory infrastructure and specialised workforce training.
He noted that expanding domestic vaccine production is a key step toward improving the country’s health security while reducing dependence on imported vaccines.
Partnership extends beyond vaccine manufacturing
Beyond vaccine production, Kenya and Japan are also working to strengthen pharmaceutical regulation and speed up access to quality medicines.
The meeting reviewed progress in implementing the Reliance Process, a regulatory framework designed to accelerate the approval of medicines that have already undergone evaluation by Japanese authorities.
Officials said the initiative is expected to shorten approval timelines while maintaining high safety and quality standards for pharmaceutical products entering the Kenyan market.
Focus on quality medicines and research
The two countries also agreed to deepen collaboration in pharmaceutical research, regulatory harmonisation and efforts to combat substandard and falsified medical products.
The partnership seeks to enhance oversight of Kenya’s pharmaceutical sector while supporting the growth of local manufacturers capable of producing internationally compliant medicines and vaccines.
Government officials believe the collaboration will strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing hub and improve access to essential medical products across East Africa.
The meeting brought together representatives from KEMRI, the Kenya Biovax Institute, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) and senior officials from the Ministry of Health, alongside members of the Japanese delegation.
Officials said the renewed partnership reflects the shared commitment by Kenya and Japan to invest in health innovation, scientific research and sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing as part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare systems.
