KEMSA feted for leading Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practices

In a highly competitive assessment involving 56 public institutions across Kenya, KEMSA’s Embakasi National Supply Chain Centre clinched 1st place in the newly introduced ‘Public Sector OSH Challenge – Occupational Safety & Health Practices and Standards’ category.

Additionally, the Kisumu Regional Distribution Centre (RDC) earned 3rd place, further affirming the Authority’s steadfast commitment to workplace safety and health, demonstrating that OSH is not isolated to a single facility but is consistently implemented across all KEMSA facilities.

KEMSA says the Kisumu RDC’s recognition is notable given the logistical complexities often associated with regional supply chain operations. It highlights the Authority’s ability to maintain high safety standards for all its’ employees countrywide.

The awards were presented following a rigorous and unannounced inspection conducted in 2025 by the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) under the Ministry of Labour.

KEMSA’s OSH Officer, Caroline Nyamai, received the awards on behalf of the Authority during an official ceremony in Nanyuki, officiated by Laikipia County Governor H.E. Joshua Irungu. The event coincided with the global observance of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

Commenting on the recognition, KEMSA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Waqo Ejersa reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to upholding the highest OSH standards across all facilities.

“This recognition is a reflection of our dedication to creating a secure, productive, and compliant work environment. Our robust safety policies ensure the wellbeing of our staff while supporting the seamless supply of essential health products and technologies across the country,” said Dr. Ejersa.

He emphasized that KEMSA’s focus on health and safety not only aligns with legal and regulatory frameworks but also serves as a foundation for efficient service delivery, operational resilience, and staff motivation.

“Safety is not just a requirement—it is a strategic pillar that supports sustainable, efficient, and uninterrupted healthcare service delivery across the country,” he added.

The CEO added that the Authority puts emphasis on a secure, productive, and compliant work environment as employee’s wellbeing and high performance go hand in hand.

By institutionalizing robust OSH frameworks, KEMSA says it not only complies with national labour and safety laws but also establishes an organizational culture rooted in responsibility, care, and professionalism.

The recognition, KEMSA says, places the institution as a model agency in the public sector, offering a blueprint for how organizations can align occupational safety with broader goals such as efficiency, service delivery, and workforce development.

Dr. Ejersa emphasized that safety is not a peripheral concern but a central pillar in ensuring continuous healthcare service delivery.

He reinforced KEMSA’s vision of sustainable operations where disruptions are minimized, and health services reach every part of the country without delay.