Nairobi, Kenya – The newly appointed National Quality Control Laboratory (NQCL) Board of Management was officially inaugurated on 7th June 2024, marking a significant milestone in ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety for health products.

The ceremony, presided over by the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public and Professional Standards, Ms. Mary Muthoni Muriuki, took place at the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB).

PS Muthoni emphasized the critical role of NQCL in ensuring health products meet stringent safety standards set by the PPB. She urged the NQCL leadership to enhance laboratory testing functions to align with the World Health Organization’s Global Benchmarking Tool.

Ms. Muthoni also challenged the new board to implement strategies for productivity measurement, aiming to improve health service delivery efficiency. She commended the PPB management for appointing the NQCL board and encouraged continued support for effective mandate execution.

Dr. Charles Githinji, Chairman of the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, praised NQCL for its vital role in safeguarding Kenyan health and contributing to the national economy. He highlighted the expertise, vision, and leadership of the new board members, confident they will propel NQCL to new heights.

As Kenya targets WHO Maturity Level 3 by 2025, Dr. Githinji encouraged the board to navigate evolving regulatory landscapes and product complexities through innovation and excellence. He called on the board to set new benchmarks in quality control and uphold the highest standards of trust, quality, and reliability.

The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Health, PPB board members and top management, and the NQCL leadership and its board of management.