KEMSA Seeks Last-Mile Access to Life-Changing Assistive Tech

KEMSA's Commitment to Assistive Technology in Kenya
The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) has reaffirmed its dedication to making assistive technology (AT) devices more accessible, affordable, and available to all Kenyans. This commitment is rooted in the belief that access to such technologies is a fundamental human right, essential for dignity and social justice.
At the 2025 Devolution Conference held in Homa Bay County, themed “Advancing Human Rights and Social Justice through Assistive Technology and Rehabilitation Services,” KEMSA Chief Executive Officer Waqo Dulacha emphasized the importance of inclusion within the health supply chain. He stressed that no Kenyan should be left behind in the quest for equitable access to healthcare services.
Dulacha highlighted that several legal frameworks, including the Constitution of Kenya, the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, recognize access to assistive technology and rehabilitation as a human right. He reiterated KEMSA’s role in ensuring these vital devices reach every part of the country reliably, efficiently, and sustainably.
Global ATscale Initiative
Under the global ATscale initiative, KEMSA has taken a leading role in shaping the market for assistive products and improving access through an optimized supply chain. The authority has collaborated with the Ministry of Health, the Council of Governors, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and other partners to standardize specifications for AT devices, strengthen procurement frameworks, and integrate AT products into its Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) for easier county-level ordering.
This collaboration has led to significant progress. KEMSA has distributed approximately 300 wheelchairs to 12 counties, delivered newborn hearing screening equipment and audiometers to regional hubs, and procured a wide range of eyeglasses and frames for national distribution. Additionally, the authority has supported the operationalization of optical labs and outlets, forming a hub-and-spoke model that links to lower-level health facilities.
Enhancing Sustainability and Efficiency
To enhance sustainability, assistive devices are now embedded in KEMSA’s LMIS, enabling real-time tracking, forecasting, and inventory management. This system helps prevent stock-outs and ensures equitable distribution of AT devices across the country.
Selected staff are undergoing specialized training in AT logistics and management to strengthen internal technical capacity. This investment in human resources is crucial for maintaining the quality and efficiency of AT services.
Role of County Governments
Dulacha underscored the critical role of county governments in scaling and sustaining AT services. He emphasized the importance of working closely with County Health Supply Chain Teams to ensure that procurement and distribution respond to local needs and are informed by data. He called on counties to prioritize AT in their health budgets, adopt standardized specifications and data tools, and collaborate with KEMSA to close gaps in last-mile delivery.
A People-Centered Approach
“The ATscale project is not just about products; it is about people,” Dulacha emphasized. “It is about restoring mobility, enhancing communication, improving vision and hearing, and enabling independence and participation.”
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health, the Council of Governors, development partners, and organizations of persons with disabilities for their leadership and collaboration. KEMSA remains committed to championing equity, efficiency, and inclusion in Kenya’s health system.
Dulacha concluded by reiterating that access to assistive technology is a matter of rights, dignity, and justice. He pledged that KEMSA will continue to work tirelessly to ensure every Kenyan who needs a device gets one.
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