Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, delivered a strong call for enhanced hygiene practices, health registration, and quality standards in healthcare during her visit to ACK St. Michael Kavuti Church in Kirinyaga County. Addressing a congregation of worshippers, Muthoni used the platform to amplify key public health priorities that align with the government’s broader vision of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improving health outcomes across the country.
One of the core themes of her address was the significance of maintaining both personal and environmental hygiene. She noted that preventive health measures, such as regular handwashing, proper waste disposal, and clean living environments, remain essential in combating the spread of communicable diseases. According to Muthoni, hygiene is not merely a personal responsibility but a shared community obligation that directly impacts public health and wellness.
The Principal Secretary also shed light on the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which is central to the new health financing reforms under the Social Health Insurance (SHI) framework. She encouraged all Kenyans to register early and take full advantage of the benefits provided under this system, which aims to offer equitable access to affordable and quality healthcare services. Registration, she stressed, is a key step in guaranteeing that no one is left behind in the new healthcare model.
Further, Muthoni introduced the proposed Quality of Care and Patient Safety Bill, 2025, which is currently under stakeholder review. This Bill seeks to institutionalize mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing standards in healthcare delivery, ensuring that patients receive safe, dignified, and efficient medical attention. It also provides for stronger accountability structures within health institutions, including clear protocols for addressing complaints and redressing medical errors.
She emphasized that quality healthcare must be the foundation of UHC, and that the Bill serves as a tool to ensure both public and private facilities uphold consistent and ethical health practices. By aligning patient rights with provider obligations, the proposed legislation is expected to improve trust in the healthcare system and reinforce the Ministry’s commitment to reforms that prioritize patient safety.
Muthoni’s engagement at the church is part of a broader Ministry strategy to engage grassroots communities, faith-based organizations, and local leaders in public health promotion. Such community forums not only build awareness but also foster a sense of ownership among citizens, empowering them to actively participate in shaping the health policies that affect their lives.
