Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening partnerships with the private healthcare sector as part of efforts to accelerate the delivery of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). 
By Fredrick Kioko,
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening partnerships with the private healthcare sector as part of efforts to accelerate the delivery of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Speaking during the Quarterly Ministerial Health Sector Stakeholders Meeting with the Kenya Healthcare Federation>, led by Chairperson Dr. Kanyenje Gakombe, Duale said collaboration between the government and private sector remains critical to ensuring Kenyans have access to quality, affordable and people-centered healthcare.
The meeting brought together senior government officials and private healthcare leaders to assess progress on key health reforms, including sustainable health financing, digital health, medical supply chains and the fight against non-communicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses.
Duale said the government is prioritizing prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and continuity of care as part of broader efforts to reduce the growing burden of chronic diseases.
On pharmaceutical regulation, the Cabinet Secretary said reforms at the Pharmacy and Poisons Board have significantly improved transparency, efficiency and oversight within the sector.
He revealed that authorities have removed more than 2,596 counterfeit and substandard medical products from the Kenyan market and abolished permits for parallel importation, a move aimed at protecting patients and safeguarding the country's pharmaceutical supply chain.
The Health CS also challenged the private sector to support Kenya's Local Manufacturing Strategy by investing in domestic production of medicines and medical products, promoting technology transfer and driving innovation to strengthen the country's health security.
Duale further emphasized the importance of the proposed Quality of Care Healthcare Bill, saying it will establish a robust legal framework to improve patient safety, enhance accountability and raise service standards across both public and private health facilities.
He also invited members of the Kenya Healthcare Federation to participate in the upcoming Kenya Health Summit 2026, which will showcase ongoing health reforms, strengthen partnerships and accelerate the country's journey towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.
The meeting was attended by Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, Director of Public Health and Sanitation Dr. Stephen Muleshe, Kenya Medical Supplies Authority CEO Dr. Waqo Ejersa, Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council CEO Dr. David Kariuki, senior Ministry of Health officials and representatives from the private healthcare sector.
