The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) has refurbished the medicine store at Port Reitz Sub-County Hospital in Mombasa, Kenya. The project aimed to improve medicine quality, patient safety, and health commodity management. The facility was officially handed over during a ceremony presided over by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir. This initiative is part of KEMSA's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme for the 2025/2026 financial year.
The refurbished medicine store is expected to benefit over 300,000 people served by the hospital and neighbouring communities in Changamwe and Jomvu. KEMSA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Waqo Ejersa stated that proper storage conditions are essential in maintaining the quality, safety, and effectiveness of medicines after delivery to health facilities. The project addresses infrastructure challenges identified during a needs assessment conducted in April 2025 by KEMSA, Mombasa County officials, and hospital management.
The upgrades to the medicine store include a ceiling and air-conditioning system to support temperature control, improved flooring, reinforced walls, secure windows and doors, repaired storage racks, and additional office and washroom facilities. Gutters and perimeter pavement were also installed to improve water management and reduce the risk of pest intrusion. These improvements will strengthen compliance with Good Storage and Distribution Practices.
The refurbishment aims to minimise medicine deterioration, avoidable losses, and inefficient stock management. Dr. Ejersa emphasised that infrastructure investments must be supported by routine temperature monitoring, accurate inventory records, equipment maintenance, and adherence to recommended storage conditions. This will ensure the quality and safety of medicines.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir welcomed the investment, describing it as an example of collaboration between national institutions and county governments to address healthcare delivery challenges. He reaffirmed Mombasa County's commitment to working with KEMSA to improve access to quality and affordable medicines.
The Port Reitz project builds on similar KEMSA initiatives at Mtwapa Sub-County Hospital in Kilifi and Msambweni County Referral Hospital in Kwale. The Authority is also finalising a laboratory project at Dakabaricha Dispensary in Marsabit County. These initiatives reflect KEMSA's commitment to strengthening the entire health supply chain.
KEMSA's efforts to improve health commodity management and access to essential medicines are ongoing. Dr. Ejersa commended the county's engagement with KEMSA, highlighting predictable financing, consistent ordering, and timely payments as important factors in sustaining the supply of essential medical commodities. The collaboration between KEMSA and county governments is crucial in delivering safe, reliable, and quality healthcare services.
Key points
- KEMSA refurbishes Port Reitz Hospital's medicine store to improve storage conditions and protect medical supplies.
- The project benefits over 300,000 people in Mombasa's Changamwe and Jomvu areas.
- The initiative reflects KEMSA's commitment to strengthening the health supply chain and supporting counties in delivering quality healthcare services.
