The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale, recently convened a strategic engagement with representatives of nurses and midwives to discuss the implementation of Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Social Health Authority (SHA) initiatives. This meeting underscored the critical role nurses and midwives play in Kenya’s health system, especially considering they constitute over 70% of the country’s healthcare workforce.
Central to the discussions was the recognition of nurses and midwives as the essential link between health policies and the communities they serve. The Cabinet Secretary emphasized how these health professionals are uniquely positioned to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, build trust within communities, and mobilize resources that directly benefit families. Their involvement is pivotal in driving the UHC agenda forward and ensuring that health services reach every corner of the country.
An important part of the engagement focused on the Social Health Authority packages, which cover vital health services such as maternity care, emergency medical services, management of chronic illnesses, and palliative care. The Cabinet Secretary highlighted that nurses and midwives would be at the forefront of rolling out these packages. Their deep engagement at the community level will ensure effective implementation and real impact, as they are often the first point of contact for patients and families seeking healthcare.
The Cabinet Secretary called on nurses and midwives to take leadership roles in championing SHA registration and increasing community awareness about its benefits. Sensitizing the public on the importance of enrolling in SHA programs is crucial to achieving widespread participation, which in turn supports the sustainability of these health initiatives.
Further reinforcing the government’s commitment, the Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed ongoing investments in the nursing workforce through enhanced training programs and improved health facility infrastructure. These efforts aim to empower nurses and midwives with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to provide quality health services. The integration of modern technologies like the electronic Community Health Information Systems (eCHIS) is a key step toward improving data collection and service delivery. This system allows frontline health workers to better track health indicators and patient information, thereby improving decision-making at the community level.
Moreover, the Cabinet Secretary revealed plans to incorporate frontline health workers, especially nurses, into Kenya’s emerging national Artificial Intelligence in Health strategy. By involving nurses and midwives in the development and deployment of AI tools, the government seeks to harness technology in enhancing diagnostics, patient monitoring, and health system efficiencies. This inclusion ensures that AI innovations are grounded in the realities of frontline healthcare delivery and meet the practical needs of communities.
The meeting also brought together other senior health officials, including the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, the Director General for Health, and the Ministry’s Secretary Administration. Their presence highlighted the multisectoral approach being taken to ensure that Kenya’s health strategies are well-coordinated and inclusive of all key players.
This engagement marks a critical milestone in Kenya’s health sector as the country advances toward achieving Universal Health Coverage. Nurses and midwives remain the backbone of the healthcare system, and their empowerment and active involvement in policy implementation will be vital in realizing a healthier Kenya. By equipping these frontline workers with adequate resources, training, and technological tools, the government is laying a strong foundation for a health system that is accessible, equitable, and sustainable.
In summary, the strategic dialogue emphasized the indispensable contribution of nurses and midwives to Kenya’s health transformation. Their role transcends traditional clinical care, extending into community engagement, health education, and leadership in health initiatives. As Kenya intensifies efforts to implement UHC and SHA, the collaboration and leadership of nurses and midwives will be crucial in translating policies into tangible health outcomes for all Kenyans.
