Social Business Initiatives to Improve Access to Essential Drugs in Kenya – Women Deliver

Governments are increasing their partnerships with drug manufacturers for mutual gain. These alliances, known as social business interventions, pair commercial partners with governments or non-profit organizations. In 2012, the Government of Kenya teamed with a pharmaceutical industry partner, Novartis, to launch the Familia Nawiri program to increase access to essential drugs for otherwise under-treated conditions (including hypertension and diabetes) in the poorest communities. Community health educators, often women, played a pivotal role in community engagement and linking community members with healthcare providers for care and access to medicines.