Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale met with British High Commissioner Neil Wigan at Afya House in Nairobi for high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing the robust health collaboration between Kenya and the United Kingdom. The dialogue reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to a strategic partnership that addresses Kenya’s evolving healthcare needs and challenges.
Central to their discussions were pressing issues such as the management of emerging infectious diseases, the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the persistent regional disparities in maternal and child health. These are key public health priorities that demand innovative solutions, international cooperation, and sustained investment.
The two leaders explored enhanced avenues of collaboration aligned with the Government of Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda, which is a critical component of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Both parties emphasized the need to foster partnerships that directly support Kenya’s goals to deliver equitable, quality, and affordable healthcare for all.
Specific focus areas identified for deepened engagement included capacity building in health workforce development, bolstering of health systems, advancement in research and innovation, and improvements in public health infrastructure and disease surveillance. Emphasis was also placed on harnessing the potential of Kenya’s diaspora in contributing to national health goals, as well as encouraging greater involvement from the public sector in driving sustainable health outcomes.
Health Cabinet Secretary Duale acknowledged the United Kingdom’s longstanding commitment to supporting Kenya’s health sector. He highlighted how the collaboration has positively influenced health commodity security, expanded financial risk protection for citizens, and encouraged the integration of digital technologies in healthcare service delivery.
Digital health solutions were noted as an area with immense potential, particularly in enhancing access to care, improving data-driven decision-making, and facilitating health service delivery across underserved regions. The leaders underscored the importance of leveraging technology to bridge healthcare gaps and ensure efficient resource utilization.
The meeting underscored a shared vision between Kenya and the UK to build resilient health systems that can withstand current and future health threats. There was consensus on the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and structured cooperation to drive the implementation of agreed initiatives.
Present during the discussions was the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, who echoed the significance of international partnerships in realizing Kenya’s health aspirations. She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that ongoing and future collaborations translate into tangible improvements in the health and well-being of all Kenyans.
The session concluded with both parties reaffirming their dedication to continued cooperation and the pursuit of a stronger, healthier Kenya through strategic partnerships rooted in shared values and mutual benefit.
