The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) has earned global acclaim for its groundbreaking Smart Net Distribution Project and Integrated Logistics Management Information System (i-LMIS), emerging as one of the four finalists at the prestigious Global Health Supply Chain Summit (GHSCS) in Lagos, Nigeria. Competing against 31 international applications, KEMSA’s dual innovations stood out, reinforcing its position as a leader in health supply chain solutions.
Transformative Innovations in Health Supply Chain Management
KEMSA’s i-LMIS and Last Mile Smart Net Distribution Project (LEAP) have redefined efficiency and accessibility in health supply chains. The i-LMIS system has been instrumental in improving commodity security by optimizing forecasting, demand planning, and transparency across the supply chain.
Developed by KEMSA’s ICT team, the i-LMIS system integrates three key components:
- Commodity Early Warning and Alert System (CEWAS): This predictive analytics tool uses dashboards and alerts to prevent stockouts, wastage, and pilferage, ensuring real-time monitoring of stock levels.
- Allocation System: Streamlines ordering and distribution based on actual consumption patterns, minimizing inefficiencies.
- Electronic Proof of Delivery (e-POD): Enhances accountability by providing digital proof of deliveries, fostering trust and transparency.
The system covers all 47 counties in Kenya, effectively managing health commodities for programs such as HIV, TB, malaria, non-communicable diseases, oncology, and nutrition. Originally piloted in family planning initiatives with UNFPA support, i-LMIS has expanded its reach to multiple health programs, setting a global benchmark for health supply chain management.
Smart Net Distribution: A Technological Breakthrough
The Smart Net Distribution Project, known as Digital LEAP, has revolutionized malaria prevention efforts by successfully distributing 15.3 million treated mosquito nets across 22 counties. Targeting over 5 million households in malaria-endemic regions, this innovative digital platform has ensured timely and accurate deliveries of life-saving Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs).
The project deploys automated systems that enhance delivery efficiency and minimize errors, reaching vulnerable communities with essential malaria prevention tools. Speaking on the project’s success, KEMSA CEO Dr. Waqo Ejersa emphasized, “Our digital approach to mosquito net distribution is not just a technological advancement; it is a promise of improved health and well-being for the thousands of households we serve.”
Global Recognition and Support
KEMSA’s achievements at the GHSCS underscore the impact of technological integration in health systems. The i-LMIS system and Smart Net Distribution Project were lauded for their ability to improve supply chain visibility, accountability, and efficiency. Dr. Ejersa attributed the success to the dedication of the KEMSA team and the unwavering support of strategic partners, including UNFPA, the Global Fund, USAID-PMI, UNICEF, and others.
The systems have also proven effective in managing donor and government funding commitments, issuing alerts to prevent stockouts, and reducing wastage. These tools, powered by data-driven analytics, have made significant strides in combating critical health challenges such as malaria and improving family planning services.
A Model for Global Replication
KEMSA’s i-LMIS and Digital LEAP initiatives offer a replicable model for other nations seeking to improve their health supply chains. By leveraging technology, KEMSA has enhanced its ability to forecast demand, optimize distribution, and ensure timely access to health commodities, setting a gold standard in health systems management.
As Dr. Ejersa concluded, “These awards reflect our dedication to advancing health equity and ensuring that every household in need receives essential health commodities. We remain committed to leveraging technology to transform healthcare delivery in Kenya and beyond.”
KEMSA’s success at the GHSCS not only highlights its contributions to Kenya’s healthcare sector but also positions it as a trailblazer in global health supply chain solutions.
