On 14 March 2018, KELIN, the Kenya Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO), NCD Alliance Kenya and Oxfam International hosted stakeholders from civil society who work across disease areas in a discussion on areas of collaboration for access to medicines.
The stakeholders were updated on the global conversation on access to medicines and reflected on the recommendations of the UN High Level Panel on Access to Medicines Report. KELIN shared the legal and policy framework for access to medicines in Kenya highlighting the opportunities presented by the Constitution, Health Act 2017, the TRIPS flexibilities and the conversation on Universal Health Coverage.
This was a rare convening with stakeholders sharing the various efforts being made across disease areas to advocate for access to medicines. Relatedly, participants identified several opportunities for collaboration. Some of these are presented by government commitment towards achieving UHC, and implementation of both international and local legislation on access to medicines (including recommendations of the UN high level panel).
Going forward KELIN will implement the Aidsfonds grant that seeks to improve access to medicines for PLHIV by promoting the use of TRIPS flexibilities in Kenya and Uganda. KELIN will seek collaboration in making access to medicines a reality.
To contribute to the discussion and for live updates follow KELIN on our social media platforms:
Twitter: @KELINkenya
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kelinkenya
For more information contact:
Allan Maleche
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
4th Floor, Somak Building, Mombasa Road
PO Box 112-00200, KNH
Email: amaleche@kelinkenya.org
Mobile No: +254 708389870
