Kenya is stepping up efforts to strengthen its laboratory systems and expand access to quality diagnostics through a new partnership with the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM). The collaboration is set to improve healthcare delivery, enhance disease surveillance, and support the country’s drive toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
At the center of this initiative is the goal of ensuring that all Kenyans have timely access to reliable and accurate diagnostic services. Strong laboratory systems form the backbone of effective healthcare since they inform treatment decisions, track disease outbreaks, and guide public health policies. By improving standards, building capacity, and modernizing infrastructure, the partnership aims to close existing gaps that have long hindered the efficiency of diagnostic services in the country.
The discussions between the Ministry of Health and ASLM placed a strong emphasis on capacity building. Training more laboratory professionals and equipping them with advanced skills will not only improve service delivery but also strengthen Kenya’s preparedness and response to emerging health threats. This aligns with the country’s broader health agenda of reducing reliance on external support by nurturing local expertise.
Access to quality diagnostics remains uneven in many parts of Kenya, with rural and remote areas being the most affected. The collaboration seeks to bridge these disparities by ensuring that even communities in hard-to-reach regions benefit from reliable laboratory services. Expanding access will help reduce the burden of preventable diseases and ensure earlier detection of health conditions, thereby lowering treatment costs and improving outcomes.
In addition to boosting access, the partnership also focuses on standardization and quality assurance. Uniform practices across laboratories nationwide will guarantee accuracy and consistency of results, which are critical in guiding effective patient care. This will also build trust among healthcare providers and the public in the reliability of the country’s health systems.
The partnership reflects Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its health systems as a driver of social and economic development. Reliable diagnostics are not just about health they also safeguard productivity, reduce the economic burden of disease, and contribute to national resilience. With ASLM’s support, Kenya is positioning itself as a regional leader in laboratory medicine, ensuring that quality diagnostics become a central pillar in the journey toward Universal Health Coverage.
