By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
The Ministry of Health has announced the rollout of an emergency medical transport system designed to provide life-saving support to pregnant mothers and newborns in urgent need of care.
This initiative follows a high-level meeting between Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo and Global m-mama representative Mr. Lee Walls, held on Monday, February 17, 2025.
The Ministry of Health claims that the Cabinet authorized the implementation of this system on December 17, 2024, as a crucial measure to lessen the delays that lead to maternal and neonatal deaths.
The Ministry of Health appreciated the support from partners, including Vodafone Foundation, M-Pesa Foundation, the British FCDO, Grand Challenges Canada, and other funders, for committing resources to this life-saving initiative.
In addition to partner contributions, the Government of Kenya has committed KES 2.6 billion over three financial years to sustain the program. With final preparations now in place, Dr. Mlongo confirmed that the emergency medical transport system will be fully operational by July 2025.
“With today’s discussions clearing the way, I am pleased to announce that the system will be fully operational by July 2025, benefiting 1.5 million mothers and 2 million children,” said the CS.
The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah M. Barasa, reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strengthening healthcare access and sustainability.
She highlighted the achievements, challenges, and future strategies for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
By ensuring timely medical interventions, the system is expected to save thousands of lives annually, marking a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage and reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates in the country.