By Dorothy Musyoka
Kenya is ramping up efforts to secure sustainable healthcare financing following the suspension of foreign aid, which has impacted critical health programs and led to job losses.
Speaking at a High-Level Meeting between the Ministry of Health, the Council of Governors, the National Assembly and Senate Health Committees, and development partners, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, emphasized the urgency of finding local solutions.
The meeting, led by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, brought together key stakeholders to assess the implications of reduced external funding and explore alternative financing strategies.
Mr. Kimtai acknowledged the significant role that foreign aid has played in Kenya’s healthcare system but stressed that the country must now prioritize self-reliance through domestic resource mobilization and public-private partnerships.
“The government is engaging international partners while exploring public-private partnerships and domestic resource mobilization,” stated PS Kimtai.
He called on county governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector to collaborate in strengthening healthcare delivery, underscoring the importance of structured communication and sustained efforts to protect the country’s health gains.
Dr. Mlongo Barasa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) despite the funding setback.
The meeting concluded with a call for immediate action, including policy adjustments to enhance domestic health financing, increased efficiency in resource allocation, and a renewed focus on sustainable healthcare investments.
As Kenya navigates this transition, stakeholders remain optimistic that a collaborative and strategic approach will ensure the resilience of the country’s healthcare system.