The government has been urged to enhance support for local health product manufacturers to foster affordable healthcare access.

This, industry players said, will not only reduce healthcare costs but also expand job opportunities across the country.

The appeal was made during Kaluma’s 100-year anniversary celebration held in Nairobi, where industry players and public health advocates gathered to reflect on the brand’s legacy and the future of local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

While pushing for a more conducive policy and regulatory environment, Vikas Khandelwal, Vice President of Shalina Healthcare East Africa, said that local manufacturing can reduce healthcare costs, strengthen supply chains and reduce reliance on imports.

He said Kenya has the potential to become a regional hub for pharmaceutical production, but needs stronger policy backing.

“There is a lot of untapped capacity among local manufacturers. What is required is consistent government support through favourable policies, tax incentives, and simplified regulations that allow businesses to thrive,” Khandelwal said.

His sentiments were echoed by CEO Shalina Clifford, who noted that as the country moves toward universal health coverage, local firms must be included as key stakeholders in the solution.

She pointed out that manufacturing at scale could help reduce prices and improve the availability of essential medicines.

Industry players at the event also discussed broader public health issues, particularly access to quality treatment in rural and underserved areas.

They reiterated that a robust local manufacturing base could enable faster distribution and response to medical needs nationwide.

The centenary also launched a six-month public campaign under the theme Community, Health, and Heritage, which will include free health camps, environmental initiatives, and forums to educate the public on preventive healthcare.

While the initiative was described as part of Kaluma’s corporate social responsibility, organisers also positioned it as a reminder of the role businesses play in public health promotion.

Its century-long presence in Kenya was described as a reflection of resilience in the healthcare space, with stakeholders insisting that the next phase must focus on partnerships that prioritise local industry growth.

The event comes at a time when the government is under pressure to cut the cost of healthcare and ensure a consistent supply of medicines, particularly as the country rolls out universal health coverage.