By Ashley Kariuki
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale appeared before the National Assembly Health Committee, chaired by Hon. James Nyikal (MP, Seme Constituency), to update on Kenya’s progress in implementing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“I highlighted key reforms driving UHC delivery through the Taifa Care programme,” said Duale.
Among the milestones shared was the rollout of the Comprehensive Integrated Health Information System, now live in 24 counties, with more than 13,000 trained users.
Working with the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), the Ministry has shut down 983 non-compliant facilities and downgraded 487 others to safeguard quality care.
Duale also noted the recapitalization of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), aimed at ensuring a steady and reliable supply of medical commodities nationwide. He highlighted partnerships with leading hospitals and pharmaceutical companies such as Roche that have helped reduce the cost of critical medication, including Herceptin, whose price was slashed from KES 120,000 to KES 40,000.
On social health insurance, Duale reported that under the 2023 Act, the SHA has empanelled 9,365 health facilities, now serving 6.2 million Kenyans. Of these, 4.3 million have accessed free primary care services while 1.9 million have benefited from specialized treatment through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
“I reiterated our commitment to a people-centred, equitable and financially sustainable health system, with zero tolerance for fraud and quackery,” he added.
The Cabinet Secretary was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, Health Committee Chair and Tharaka Nithi Governor Hon. Muthomi Njuki, Council of Governors CEO Ms. Mary Mwiti, CEOs of SAGAs, and other senior Ministry officials.