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Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has moved to address concerns raised by diploma-holding pharmacists over the new 2026 Good Pharmacy Practice Standards.
Duale said the guidelines do not block diploma holders or any other category of pharmacy professionals from working in Kenya’s health sector.
The CS explained that all registered and licensed pharmacy professionals will continue practising within their approved areas of responsibility.
Diploma Pharmacists Raise Alarm
The clarification comes after protests by pharmaceutical technologists under the Kenya Pharmaceutical Association (KPA).
The group raised concerns over sections of the new standards, especially rules on who can serve as the superintendent of pharmacy services in health facilities.
The pharmacists argued that the guidelines could prevent diploma holders from managing pharmacy services in Level 3 facilities, including health centres and comprehensive community clinics.
They called for the removal of sections they believe could limit their professional roles and affect access to pharmaceutical services.
CS Explains Superintendent Role
Duale said the standards make a distinction between practising as a pharmacy professional and serving as a superintendent.
According to the CS, a superintendent oversees pharmaceutical services and ensures a facility complies with professional and regulatory requirements.
He said the qualifications required for the role will depend on the complexity and risks associated with services offered at each facility.
Duale maintained that the guidelines focus on protecting patients and improving the quality of pharmaceutical care.
Government Defends New Standards
The Health CS said the new rules aim to address challenges affecting the pharmacy sector, including illegal practices and misuse of professional licences.
He cited concerns such as renting out licences and improper dispensing of controlled medicines and antibiotics.
Duale dismissed claims that the standards were introduced suddenly, saying the process took more than five years.
He said the development involved several reviews, consultations and revisions before the final standards were released.
The CS urged pharmacy professionals to work within the new framework, saying the regulations are intended to improve patient safety and strengthen healthcare services.
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