Kenya Courts Merck for Biotech and Pharmaceutical Boost
The Kenyan government is exploring expanded collaboration with Merck Healthcare and Life Science in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, local manufacturing, and capacity building. The goal is to strengthen domestic health-sector capabilities.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga met with a Merck delegation led by Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of the Merck Foundation, on potential areas of cooperation and investment in Kenya's health sector. The discussions focused on opportunities to strengthen biotechnology and pharmaceutical capabilities, expand local manufacturing, and develop specialized skills.
Dr. Oluga emphasized the importance of partnerships that support knowledge and technology transfer, strengthen local expertise, and create opportunities for greater domestic production of essential health products. This engagement is part of the government's efforts to attract strategic health investments, promote innovation, and advance a more resilient and self-reliant health system.