Kenya’s Push for WHO Maturity Level 3 Status for National Quality Control Laboratories
However, she expressed optimism about the progress being made and the government’s commitment to addressing these issues.

The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving the World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3 status for the National Quality Control Laboratories (NQCL). Ministry of Health.
The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving the World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3 status for the National Quality Control Laboratories (NQCL).
This milestone will mark a significant step in ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of health products and technologies, aligning with global standards while advancing the country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, emphasized the government’s dedication to this goal during a visit to the NQCL. She inspected the facility, assessed existing challenges, and explored sustainable solutions to enhance its operational capacity.
“The NQCL plays a critical role in safeguarding public health. Achieving WHO Maturity Level 3 will not only elevate our health product standards but also reinforce public trust in the health sector,” Muthoni stated.
Attaining Maturity Level 3 status will signify that Kenya’s regulatory system for health products meets advanced global benchmarks, ensuring that medicines, vaccines, and other technologies provided to the public are of high quality.
It will also position Kenya as a leader in health regulation within the region, enabling greater access to international markets for locally produced medical products.
The move is part of Kenya’s broader efforts to strengthen its health systems and ensure equitable access to high-quality healthcare. By achieving this standard, the government aims to enhance the country’s ability to combat counterfeit and substandard medical products, which pose significant risks to public health.
Muthoni acknowledged the challenges facing the NQCL, including resource constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and the need for skilled personnel.
However, she expressed optimism about the progress being made and the government’s commitment to addressing these issues.
“We are working on sustainable strategies to equip the NQCL with modern technology, adequate funding, and trained personnel. This will ensure that the laboratory can perform its duties effectively and meet WHO requirements,” she added.
The achievement of WHO Maturity Level 3 status will also bolster Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage agenda, a cornerstone of the government’s health policy.
By ensuring the availability of safe and effective health products, the NQCL will contribute to improved health outcomes for all Kenyans.
The government’s dedication to strengthening the NQCL underscores its broader vision of creating a robust healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of the population while adhering to international standards.