In a significant step towards strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, met with the leadership of the Social Health Authority to discuss progress and collaboration on advancing the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda. The meeting, held at Afya House in Nairobi, served as a platform to evaluate the Authority’s ongoing initiatives and realign efforts with the national health priorities.
During the engagement, Dr. Oluga praised the Authority for its continued dedication to delivering on its mandate, which is pivotal in achieving UHC in Kenya. He stressed the need for close coordination and integration between the Authority’s operations and the overarching strategies outlined by the government to enhance the accessibility, quality, and affordability of healthcare services across the country.
“We need to build an institution that is competent to undertake its mandate,” he stated, emphasizing that a responsive and accountable healthcare system relies heavily on well-structured, efficient, and people-centered institutions. His remarks underscored the critical role that governance, leadership, and institutional capacity play in realizing a sustainable and effective health system.
The meeting also served as the inaugural engagement between the Principal Secretary and the Social Health Authority’s management team, which was led by Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Robert Ingasira. Dr. Ingasira provided an overview of the Authority’s core mandate, its strategic direction, and the milestones achieved so far in implementing its policies and programs. He reiterated the Authority’s commitment to delivering equitable health services and ensuring that every Kenyan, regardless of socioeconomic status, can access quality healthcare without financial hardship.
According to the management team, the Authority has made considerable progress in laying the groundwork for a more inclusive health system. This includes streamlining processes, engaging with key stakeholders, and adopting technologies to support service delivery and ensure transparency and accountability. The team outlined key focus areas such as enhancing health insurance coverage, promoting preventive care, and improving the efficiency of healthcare financing mechanisms.
The Principal Secretary expressed confidence in the team’s ability to drive the UHC agenda forward. He encouraged the Authority to remain steadfast in its mission while being adaptive to the dynamic healthcare needs of the population. He further highlighted the importance of community involvement, data-driven decision-making, and partnerships with both public and private sector players in achieving lasting impact.
One of the critical issues discussed was the role of the Social Health Authority in addressing disparities in healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved regions. The Principal Secretary emphasized the need for equitable resource allocation and targeted interventions to bridge existing gaps and ensure that no Kenyan is left behind in the pursuit of universal health.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to reinforce collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Social Health Authority. Both parties agreed on the urgency of building institutional resilience, ensuring financial sustainability, and maintaining a patient-centered approach in all health programs.
The discussions mark a renewed momentum in Kenya’s journey towards UHC, reflecting a collective vision for a healthier nation and a reaffirmed resolve to deliver health as a right for every citizen.
