Kenya Airways Cargo received the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharmaceutical certification by IATA for the KQ Pharma Facility.

KQ says the award endorses its ability to safely handle high-value, time-sensitive and temperature-controlled transportation of pharmaceuticals, with the speed and consistency according to shipper requirements.

The national carrier says its pharmaceutical facility is a leader in safe handling of temperature control requirements of pharmaceuticals and other healthcare products.

Roads and Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen said the CIEV certification for KQ Cargo will unlock huge potential in the market and provide a mechanism for tapping more into it.

“It is our belief that with the right support, these exports will drive the growth of Kenya’s pharmaceutical industry and place the country at the apex of pharmaceutical export,” said Murkomen.

Kenya Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka lauded the certification as proof of the strength of the airline’s Pharma capability and customized solutions and services.

“We will continue to improve our premium product verticals, offering long-standing standards of temperature-controlled and time-sensitive cargo transport,” stated Kilavuka.

He added, “With this certification, we join a select group of international operators in reaffirming our diligence in transporting temperature-controlled and time-sensitive products via our pharma network.”

The positive certification indicates that Kenya Airways' pharmaceutical product shipment complies with IATA Temperature Control Regulations and continues to adhere to international standards and best practices in cold chain and pharmaceutical movements.

On his part, KQ Director of Cargo Dick Murianki noted that Pharmaceutical shipments were extremely challenging and required maximum dependability from all airlines.

“It is critical to maintain the required temperature so that medication can be used as planned after shipping. Being one of the first African airlines to receive IATA's international certificate is the result of the work we've done over the last few years to strengthen our product,” said Murianki.

The CEIV Pharma program was established by IATA to assist the global air freight supply chain by providing a universal criteria based on current global regulations and standards.