An Exploratory Study of the Mandate and Functions of National Pharmaceutical Services Units: Global Trends and the Cases of Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, and Nepal

In many countries, National Pharmaceutical Services Units (NPSUs)—central government entities overseeing pharmaceutical services—are experiencing a narrowing of their mandate. Anecdotal evidence indicates a shift toward logistics management, leading to fragmented pharmaceutical care and policy oversight. This study examines the current functions and mandates of NPSUs in Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, and Nepal and recommends a renewed focus on four key functions: pharmaceutical policy and governance, medicine regulation, pharmacy practice regulation, and supply chain management.