Kenya and Belgium have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in medical waste management, marking a new milestone in the long-standing partnership between the two nations. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to expand the Medical Waste Microwave Project, which has now entered its third phase, focusing on ensuring safe and sustainable medical waste disposal across all 47 counties.
The project, supported by the Government of Belgium, is designed to enhance environmental health, improve infection prevention, and contribute to the development of a robust healthcare system. It also plays a crucial role in advancing Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals by ensuring that health facilities across the country have access to safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly waste disposal systems.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized Kenya’s dedication to completing key health infrastructure projects and enhancing collaboration with Belgium in developing sustainable healthcare solutions. He highlighted that the expansion of the Medical Waste Microwave Project aligns with Kenya’s broader vision to modernize health systems, safeguard public health, and protect the environment from hazardous waste generated by hospitals and clinics.
The bilateral engagement with Belgium underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing critical health sector challenges. By leveraging Belgium’s technical expertise and Kenya’s local capacity, the collaboration aims to build a nationwide network of modern waste management systems that comply with global environmental standards.
The partnership also supports Kenya’s drive toward strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing and healthcare logistics. By improving waste management practices, the initiative contributes to infection control, minimizes environmental pollution, and promotes occupational safety for health workers handling medical waste.
This collaboration reflects the shared vision of both countries to foster sustainable health development and environmental stewardship. As Phase III of the Medical Waste Microwave Project rolls out, the focus will be on capacity building, technology transfer, and ensuring that counties are well-equipped to handle medical waste effectively.
Kenya’s Ministry of Health continues to prioritize sustainable health practices as a key component of its UHC agenda, with international cooperation such as this providing the technical and financial support necessary to achieve long-term public health resilience.
