Kenya’s healthcare sector is set for a major boost after Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS) launched MEDS Devane Company Limited (MDCL), a new commercial company aimed at expanding access to quality and affordable medical products in the private healthcare sector.
MDCL was officially launched by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale during MEDS’ 40th anniversary celebrations in Nairobi. The company is expected to begin operations on November 1, 2026, serving private hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, laboratories, corporates and distributors across the country.
Speaking during the MEDS Devane Company Limited launch, CS Duale praised MEDS for its contribution to Kenya’s healthcare system, particularly its work in quality assurance and laboratory testing. He noted the organisation’s collaboration with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board in efforts to detect substandard and falsified medical products.
“MDCL will supply a wide range of healthcare products, including medicines, medical consumables, diagnostic products, laboratory supplies, infection prevention and control solutions, equipment and specialised healthcare products. “Duale said
The CS noted that the company will initially focus on Kenya before exploring opportunities in selected East African markets.
MEDS Devane Company Limited Will Focus On Ensuring Dependable Supplies
According to MDCL Board Chair Rt. Rev. Benard Owuor, the new company has been established to respond to the changing needs of private healthcare providers while maintaining the standards of quality, affordability and reliability associated with MEDS.
MEDS Chief Executive Officer Dr. Wycliffe Nandama, who is also serving as MDCL’s Acting General Manager, said the company will focus on ensuring dependable supplies, timely delivery, quality assurance and professional support for healthcare providers.
The launch comes as MEDS celebrates 40 years since it was founded in 1986 by Rev. Sr. Joan Devane, an American medical missionary and pharmacist. From its beginnings in a small warehouse in Ruaraka with just 30 products, MEDS has grown to stock more than 2,000 health products and technologies and serve healthcare facilities across all 47 counties.
The anniversary celebrations were held under the theme “Celebrating 40 Years of Life-Saving Health Solutions – Legacy. Impact. Posterity.” The event brought together government officials, healthcare stakeholders, suppliers, partners and representatives of MEDS’ founding institutions.
Rt. Rev. Owuor called on private healthcare providers to partner with MDCL, saying the company seeks to combine commercial sustainability with a long-term commitment to quality healthcare and improved access to essential medical products.
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