Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has held consultations with Amref Health Africa leadership, reaffirming the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strengthening collaboration in advancing Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda. 
By Fredrick Kioko,
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has held consultations with Amref Health Africa leadership, reaffirming the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strengthening collaboration in advancing Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
The meeting, led by Amref Health Africa Group Chief Executive Officer Dr. Githinji Gitahi, focused on strengthening health systems, expanding access to quality healthcare, and accelerating reforms aimed at improving health outcomes for Kenyans.
CS Duale acknowledged Amref’s contribution to Kenya’s emergency and critical care capacity through the installation of 22 medical oxygen generation plants across 12 underserved counties, saying the initiative has enhanced access to lifesaving oxygen and improved national preparedness.
The discussions also highlighted the implementation of the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) initiative, through which Amref is supporting six of the 26 Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) counties to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths by improving maternal, newborn, and child healthcare services.
The two sides further explored opportunities to strengthen facility-based research to generate evidence that will inform health policies and guide targeted interventions, particularly in maternal and newborn health.
CS Duale emphasised the critical role of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in strengthening preventive and promotive healthcare at the grassroots level, noting that Amref’s investment in training and capacity building continues to support stronger community health systems.
He also commended Amref’s investment in health workforce development through Amref International University (AMIU), saying its contribution to health sciences education, research, and professional training is helping strengthen Kenya’s healthcare workforce.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in building a resilient, people-centred, and evidence-driven health system that supports Kenya’s journey towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, Director of Health Sector Coordination Dr. Ahmed Albush, AMIU Vice Chancellor Prof. Joachim Osur, alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Amref Health Africa.
