KEMSA Launches 100-Day Plan to Catalyze Comprehensive System Reform

18/07/2025

The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) has embarked on a critical transformation journey to revamp its operations and restore confidence in Kenya’s public health supply chain. Following a five-day high-level strategy retreat, KEMSA’s leadership and Board unveiled a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at repositioning the Authority as a trusted national logistics provider.

Kickstarting Change: The 100-Day Rapid Results Initiative

At the heart of this shift is the launch of a 100-Day Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) — a focused action plan to deliver quick, measurable wins while laying the groundwork for the 2025–2030 Strategic Plan.

“This is the moment to unlock bottlenecks, strengthen internal systems, and rally the team around a shared purpose,” said Board Member Catherine Ngahu.

Key RRI deliverables include:

Improved Order Fill Rate (OFR)
Streamlined debt collection
Functional, integrated systems
Enhanced internal controls and ethical compliance
A visible shift in public perception and service culture

But the RRI goes beyond metrics. It marks the beginning of a deeper transformation in how KEMSA works — emphasizing accountability, ownership, and collaborative execution across all levels of the organization.

The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan: A Blueprint for Reform

“This is not just strategy — it’s survival,” said Board Chair Samuel Tunai. “KEMSA cannot afford band-aid solutions. Transformation is now.”

The Strategic Plan is anchored on five core pillars:

Full Digitization – Real-time data visibility and end-to-end supply chain integration
Supply Chain Reform – Transparent, accountable, and efficient procurement systems
Financial Sustainability – Debt recovery, cost governance, and new revenue models
Capacity Building – The launch of a KEMSA College of Excellence to drive training and innovation
Strategic Partnerships – Modernized infrastructure and public-private collaboration to support Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

Facing the Truth, Fixing the System

Legacy challenges such as stockouts, delayed deliveries, and financial opacity have long hampered the Authority’s performance. These issues are now being addressed with urgency and transparency.

“These aren’t just operational failures; they cost lives,” said Mr. Tunai. A new accountability matrix will clearly define roles, timelines, and outcomes — where leadership will be assessed by results, not rank.

Culture Shift: Teamwork, Ethics, and Purpose

At the core of KEMSA’s renewal is a cultural reset — one that prioritizes:

A values-driven and ethical workplace culture
Cross-functional collaboration to eliminate silos
Peer mentorship and digital system proficiency
A revitalized spirit of public service and professional pride

“The energy in the room must carry forward,” said Ms. Ngahu. “Transformation starts with trust, teamwork, and a shared mission.”

A Regional Vision: From National Backbone to Continental Beacon

With systems, people, and partnerships aligned, KEMSA’s ambition reaches beyond borders. The Authority is positioning itself to become premier health logistics hub — strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system while advancing regional health security.

“If we get this right,” concluded Mr. Tunai, “KEMSA will be a beacon of possibility for the entire continent.”