Description
Background
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a rising public health challenge in Kenya, disproportionately affecting residents of Nairobi’s informal settlements where poverty, fragile infrastructure, and systemic inequities limit care. Frequent stock-outs of antihypertensives and oral hypoglycemics in public facilities expose patients to complications, financial strain, and declining trust in the health system. To address these gaps, the Kenya Red Cross Society, in partnership with Nairobi County Government, piloted a community pharmacy model to strengthen continuity of NCD care in underserved sub-counties of Kamukunji, Embakasi South, Makadara, and Starehe.
Methods
Between 2022–2025, a community-led model was implemented across seven patient support groups (PSGs) linked to seven health facilities. Health care workers (HCWs) were trained on NCD management and emergency preparedness, while PSGs mobilized pooled savings and established pharmacies embedded within public facilities. Medicines were procured through Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS) to ensure affordability and quality. Data were drawn from routine facility reports, pharmacy records, and PSG monitoring of savings, membership, and drug dispensation.
Results
By mid-2024, more than 1,200 patients living with hypertension and diabetes were enrolled across the seven pharmacies. PSGs mobilized over KES 1.2 million in savings, with income-generating activities such as soap-making contributing an additional 15–20% to sustain operations. Stock-outs in participating facilities dropped by 80% from baseline. Patient adherence improved, with 72% of members reporting uninterrupted treatment in the prior six months. Monthly PSG meetings fostered ongoing health education, psychosocial support, and financial accountability.
Conclusion
Community pharmacies in Nairobi’s informal settlements show strong potential as low-cost, community-driven innovations for NCD care. Combining service delivery with financial empowerment improved adherence, resilience, and trust in health systems. Policy adoption and scale-up could position community pharmacies as a cornerstone of equitable NCD services within Kenya’s UHC agenda.
Keywords:
Community pharmacies, Informal settlements; Health system resilience; Patient support groups.
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) |
| Position | Health Program officer |
| Received a Grant? | Yes |
| If yes, give grant details | The project funded by Novo Nordisk foundation through Danish Red Cross. |
