In a major step toward advancing Kenya’s health agenda, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale held high-level consultations with the Council of Governors (CoG) Health Committee to deliberate on key priorities shaping the future of healthcare in the country.
The strategic meeting, held in Nairobi, was chaired by Wajir Governor and CoG Health Committee Chair Ahmed Abdullahi, and attended by top health officials and governors from across the nation.
The discussions, hailed as timely and pivotal, focused on emerging and longstanding issues in the health sector, including the operationalization of the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), digitization of health services, the integration of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff, and timely remuneration of Community Health Promoters (CHPs).
Key Outcomes: Digital Health and SHA Rollout Take Center Stage
Among the most significant resolutions was the decision to fast-track the digital transformation of health facilities across all 47 counties.
The Digital Health Agency, under the Ministry of Health, has been tasked with assessing county-level health information systems and ensuring their integration into a nationwide digital health infrastructure.
This initiative is expected to enhance efficiency, transparency, and data-driven decision-making in healthcare delivery.
In addition, the meeting endorsed enhanced implementation strategies for the Social Health Authority. Stakeholders agreed to increase budget allocations for emergency, chronic, and critical care under the SHA.
They also committed to equipping Level 2 to Level 5 health facility managers with the training necessary to effectively register beneficiaries, manage systems, and disseminate SHA product offerings.
These measures are aligned with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which prioritizes equitable access to quality health services.
UHC Staff and CHPs: Commitment to Human Resource Support
A key challenge addressed was the integration of UHC staff, who have been instrumental in grassroots service delivery. It was resolved that county governments will conduct a comprehensive headcount of UHC personnel.
Based on this data, the national government will release funds pegged to salary structures approved by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
The meeting also emphasized the need for structured and timely payments to Community Health Promoters, who form the backbone of primary healthcare at the community level.
Their compensation is viewed as a critical factor in sustaining momentum toward achieving Universal Health Coverage.
Joint Vision and Intergovernmental Collaboration
CS Duale reiterated the Ministry of Health’s commitment to a collaborative approach in healthcare reform.
“Partnerships with county governments are fundamental to delivering responsive and effective health services. Integrity, accountability, and transparency will guide our collective efforts,” said Duale.
The Cabinet Secretary further emphasized the importance of human resource development in rolling out the Taifa Care Model, a new framework designed to promote inclusive, affordable, and sustainable health services.
Governor Ahmed Abdullahi lauded the intergovernmental cooperation, stating, “These collaborative strides, anchored by the Council of Governors’ advocacy for devolved health functions, mark a pivotal leap toward a stronger, more equitable health system.”
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health and the national government for supporting the seamless rollout of SHA, enhancing digital health platforms, integrating UHC staff, and deploying modern medical equipment across county health facilities.
Leaders in Attendance
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders in the health sector, including Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Mr. Harry Kimtai, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, and CoG Vice Chairperson and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, among other senior officials.
This high-level engagement signals a renewed commitment to intergovernmental coordination and robust policy execution in a bid to improve health outcomes for all Kenyans.
As reforms accelerate, the collaborative spirit between national and county governments will be crucial in overcoming systemic challenges and delivering on the promise of Universal Health Coverage.
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