The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has proposed the employment of ‘Nyumba Kumi’ initiative in renewed effort to eliminate quacks in the pharmaceutical sector.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board CEO Fred Siyoi acknowledged the persistent challenge of people in the industry running pharmacies without qualifications and licensing.
This is despite consistent joint crackdowns by officials from the board and the National Police Service that has seen several people arrested and illegal outlets shut down.
Through the ‘Nyumba Kumi’ initiative, the public will be required to identify any suspected operators or outlets within communities.
“The aim is to identify and remove such individuals, safeguarding the profession's integrity and protecting the public from potential harm,” Siyoi said.
Various stakeholders are meeting in Mombasa for the 19th Annual Pharmaceutical Conference.
Siyoi has reaffirmed PPB's dedication to creating a conducive environment for pharmacy practice and regulation.
He emphasised the importance of a robust regulatory framework and underscored the need to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceutical products reaching the citizens.
“There is a need for a close partnership between the KPA and the PPB at both national and regional levels,” he said.
“Such collaboration would streamline efforts and efficiently address challenges facing the profession, creating a stronger, unified voice.”
The conference, hosted by the Kenya Pharmaceutical Association, provides a platform for professionals and stakeholders committed to advancing the field to highlight key issues affecting the sector,
This includes the urgent need for collaboration to fortify the pharmacy profession in Kenya.
The conference also addressed critical issues affecting the profession, including the elevation of pharmaceutical services at level 4 hospitals and the upgrading of career conversion programmes for pharmaceutical technologists.
Additionally, the PPB is actively developing comprehensive Standards of Pharmacy Practice to promote professionalism across all sectors.
