Kenya and Indonesia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) seeking to facilitate the strengthening, promotion, development, and implementation of regulatory cooperation in pharmaceutical products.

The MoU was concluded between the Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board and the Indonesia Food and Drug Authority.

According to a statement issued by President William Ruto, the agreement marks a significant step towards enhancing collaboration in the pharmaceutical sector between the two nations.

"Kenya and Indonesia have concluded an MOU between the Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board and the Indonesia Food and Drug Authority, which will facilitate the strengthening, promotion, development, and implementation of regulatory cooperation in pharmaceutical products," Ruto stated.

In addition to this regulatory cooperation, another MoU has been established between Kenya Biovax and Indonesia's BioFarma.

This memorandum outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration in various aspects of vaccine production and distribution.

It covers technology transfer, contract manufacturing, registration, supply, and marketing of vaccines within Kenya.

BioFarma will be responsible for the manufacturing of vaccines in the Republic of Kenya under this arrangement.

"An MOU that establishes a framework between Kenya Biovax and Indonesia’s BioFarma for cooperation in technology transfer, contract manufacturing, registration, supply, and marketing of vaccines portfolio that will be manufactured by BioFarma in the Republic of Kenya, has also been executed," the president added.

The formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding followed bilateral talks between Ruto and his Indonesian counterpart, President Joko Widodo.

The discussions took place at State House and were centred around strengthening ties in various sectors, with a particular focus on the pharmaceutical industry.

This agreement signifies a commitment from both Kenya and Indonesia to work together in addressing regulatory challenges and fostering advancements in pharmaceutical products.

The cooperative efforts outlined in the MoU are expected to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices, ultimately benefiting both nations and their respective populations.

The collaborative efforts between Kenya Biovax and Indonesia's BioFarma also hold promise for enhancing vaccine accessibility and availability.

By combining technological capabilities and leveraging each other's strengths, the two companies aim to contribute to the global effort of ensuring widespread access to essential vaccines.