Hon. Mwenje raises alarm over shortage of polio and BCG vaccines as MPs demand urgent action

National Assembly Chamber 
Wednesday, June 11th 2025

Embakasi West MP, Hon. Mark Mwenje has expressed concern over a critical shortage of polio and Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) vaccines in the country, calling for immediate intervention from the Ministry of Health.

Speaking in the National Assembly, Hon. Mwenje requested a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Health, citing growing concerns that newborns across the country are being left vulnerable due to the depletion of vital childhood vaccines.

“Vaccination of newborns is essential for development of immunity and elimination of infant mortality,” said Hon. Mwenje. “It is deeply alarming that recent reports indicate that 12 out of 47 counties have completely run out of BCG and polio vaccines.”

The legislator further highlighted that the Principal Secretary in the State Department for Medical Services had issued a warning on June 6 indicating that remaining national stockpiles of BCG and polio vaccines were projected to last only two weeks, while the rotavirus vaccine would be depleted within a month.

Hon. Mwenje now wants the Ministry of Health to outline the immediate measures it is taking to address the shortage, specific timelines for vaccine replenishment,

"We need to know the logistical plans for distribution across all 47 counties — particularly to remote regions — and the steps being taken to strengthen the national vaccine supply chain." 

He also asked for clarity on coordination between the Ministry of Health and the National Treasury to ensure timely disbursement of funds for vaccine procurement through Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

Echoing concerns raised, National Assembly Speaker Hon. Moses Wetang’ula described the situation as both “alarming and dangerous.”

“This matter was brought to my attention yesterday, and I immediately called the PS for Health, Dr. Oluga. He confirmed that the vaccines had landed at JKIA and were to be distributed to hospitals,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.

“But that is not enough. The House must be informed not only that the vaccines are here, but that they have reached every health facility in the country. Children are being born in every corner of Kenya and are constitutionally entitled to this protection,” he added.

The Speaker directed the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Health, Dr. James Nyikal, to provide a detailed response on the matter by Tuesday next week, shortening the usual two-week window.

“This is too important for delay,” the Speaker affirmed.