Nairobi, Kenya – Tuesday, January 16, marks a significant step forward in safeguarding the integrity of health products and technologies within Kenya. The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has formalized a crucial partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Anti-Counterfeit Authority. This collaborative effort is designed to fortify the regulation and enforcement of the rights of health product and technology owners.

The event witnessed the official signing by PPB CEO Dr. Fred Siyoi and his counterpart form ACA Dr. Robi Njoroge. Their presence underscored the commitment to combat the circulation of any counterfeit or falsified health products and technologies, ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of these crucial elements of healthcare.

Both CEOs expressed optimism about the positive impact of this MOU. They highlighted its potential to enhance the enforcement of Intellectual Property rights, especially within the pharmaceutical sector. Acknowledging existing challenges, such as rapidly advancing technology, porous borders, and limited human resources, the MOU becomes a strategic response to fortify the sector against these issues.

The MOU outlines a comprehensive collaborative framework covering vital areas, including information sharing, joint investigations, capacity building, joint research, regulatory harmonization, and a mechanism for regular communication between the agencies. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to upholding the highest standards in healthcare and combating threats to the health product and technology landscape in Kenya.