Kenya has exempted tax on a donation of HIV drugs that had been in the middle of a stalemate for three months causing a shortage in drugs.
The finance ministry said the exemption to the US development agency (USAID)'s donation was made after the health ministry said millions of Kenyans who depend on the antiretroviral (ARV) drugs were affected.
Many public hospitals were giving the drugs in rations, to stretch the supply. Patients used to get six months’ supply of medication at a go, but now, they can only get weekly doses.
The shortage was due to a tax standoff after USAID declined to import the drugs through the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa), citing corruption and mismanagement of the drugs. The agency opted to use a private company for importation and country level distribution.
Two important drugs, Nevirapine and Zidovudine syrup are completely out of stock. One is used to suppress viral load and boost immunity, and the other drug is used to prevent mother-to child transmission.
According to the ministry of health, last year, at least 6,800 babies were born with HIV because their mothers did not take medication properly during pregnancy and after birth.
Mothers at the moment have been advised not to breastfeed their children, to prevent transmission, since the babies are not receiving the right medical combination.
Latest Stories
-
Poor finishing a problem for Asante Kotoko throughout the season – Prosper Ogum
9 mins -
Samini teams up with Francis Osei for ‘Sticks N Locks’ EP
16 mins -
Government should resource record labels – Seven Xavier
35 mins -
I need majority in parliament to successfully complete my term – Akufo-Addo pleads
38 mins -
Next NDC government will not recognise illegal contracts signed by current administration – Sammy Gyamfi
47 mins -
Premier League clubs vote in favour of spending cap plans
58 mins -
Nigeria’s fuel crisis brings businesses to a halt
60 mins -
King Promise impresses fans at sold out show in Singapore
1 hour -
Ejisu by-election to proceed after plaintiff withdraws injunction application
1 hour -
CSOs and NGOs unite to push for priority demands at INC-4
1 hour -
Fuel tanker bursts into flames on Kumasi-Accra highway
1 hour -
EC’s stolen BVR kits, laptops: One granted bail, three still on remand
2 hours -
2 Things: Sista Afia releases first song off her upcoming album
2 hours -
GHS to embark on COVID-19 vaccination campaign starting May 4
2 hours -
CAF Confederation Cup: I’ve learned valuable lessons that will help future generations – Karim Zito
2 hours