Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale hosted a high-level delegation from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, for strategic discussions aimed at bolstering Kenya’s immunization programs and advancing progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The meeting took place at Afya House in Nairobi and focused on aligning national health priorities with Gavi’s continued support, especially in strengthening immunization efforts and improving healthcare delivery across the country.
During the engagement, the Health Cabinet Secretary underscored the government’s commitment to enhancing domestic resource mobilization. He highlighted the role of the newly established Social Health Authority in ensuring that Kenyans have sustained access to essential health services, including vaccines. This move, he explained, is crucial to safeguarding public health achievements and preparing the country for a more sustainable future in healthcare financing.
As part of the government’s plan to maintain and build on immunization gains, the Cabinet Secretary proposed a new framework for sustainable immunization financing. Central to the proposal was a recommendation for Kenya to return to the Preparatory Financing Phase of its partnership with Gavi. This would involve a recalibrated co-financing pathway, allowing for a gradual and extended increase in Kenya’s financial obligations toward immunization—stretched up to the year 2035. The proposed timeline is designed to ease the fiscal pressure on the government while ensuring continuity and stability in immunization programs.
The proposal reflects Kenya’s strategic intent to transition sustainably to full financing of its public health and immunization initiatives. It also demonstrates a commitment to long-term planning, national ownership, and partnership with global health actors.
In recognition of the enduring collaboration between Kenya and Gavi, the Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective stewardship of partner resources. He emphasized that Kenya values its development partners and seeks to deepen the trust and collaboration that have supported the country’s health sector over the years.
Responding to the proposal, the Gavi delegation welcomed Kenya’s renewed commitment and expressed appreciation for the government’s proactive stance on sustainable health financing. Gavi announced an extension of Kenya’s co-financing transition period from five to eight years. This extension aims to provide the country with greater fiscal flexibility, enabling the government to strengthen its health systems while gradually assuming full financial responsibility for immunization programs.
As part of measures to improve coordination and maximize the impact of Gavi’s support, the Cabinet Secretary also committed to establishing a dedicated Programme Coordinating Unit within the Ministry of Health. The unit will serve as a central point for managing the partnership with Gavi, tracking program implementation, and enhancing accountability.
The meeting brought together top health officials, including the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, the Director General for Health, and senior representatives from the Ministry. The engagement marked a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Kenya and Gavi, setting the stage for a more resilient, self-reliant, and sustainable healthcare system in the country.
Through strategic planning, transparent management, and strong partnerships, Kenya aims to secure the health of its population particularly children and move closer to achieving universal health coverage.
