The Ministry of Health has acknowledged a shortage of vaccines critical for newborns, particularly the Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine.
This issue has been attributed to delays in approving revenue collection documents, which in turn postponed payments to the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF).
UNICEF serves as the primary supplier of most childhood vaccines in Kenya, supported by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (Gavi).
“When we placed our orders with UNICEF, the submission of resources was delayed. This affected the supply chain pipeline for BCG,” explained Dr. Patrick Amoth, the Director General for Health.
KEMSA (Kenya Medical Supplies Authority) confirmed the shortage but reassured the public that measures are underway to address the issue.
“We are aware of the shortage of BCG vaccines and have already placed an order for 2.34 million doses, expected by the end of the month,” said KEMSA Chief Executive Officer Waqo Erjesa.
To manage the interim period, KEMSA has redistributed vaccines from low-utilization facilities to areas with higher demand. Additionally, counties have been instructed to maintain records of children who missed the vaccine to ensure they receive immunizations once the new stock arrives.
Dr. Amoth affirmed that the National Treasury had resolved the financial delays, paving the way for the arrival of the first batch of 2.34 million BCG doses by month-end.
“We have instructed county health officials to maintain a list of children who require catch-up immunizations, ensuring they receive the vaccine as soon as supplies arrive,” Amoth added.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Deborah Barasa emphasized that the ministry is working to prevent such disruptions in the future.
“We are committed to finding lasting solutions for vaccine procurement and supply to prevent shortages,” Barasa said.
Planned reforms include strengthening partnerships with international organizations such as Gavi and UNICEF, and fast-tracking Kenya’s attainment of ML3 manufacturing status to boost local vaccine production.
The shortage of BCG vaccines, essential for preventing tuberculosis in newborns, had caused concern among parents and health stakeholders. The ministry’s swift action, however, aims to ensure that those most in need are prioritized as supplies are restored.
