On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, presented the proposed budget estimates for the State Department for Medical Services for the 2025/2026 financial year before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health. The committee, chaired by Seme Member of Parliament Dr. James Nyikal, convened to review and discuss the budgetary requirements necessary to advance the health sector’s priorities and initiatives.
During his presentation, Dr. Oluga emphasized several critical areas of focus that the proposed budget seeks to support. Chief among these priorities is the advancement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), a flagship agenda aimed at ensuring that all Kenyans have access to quality and affordable health care services without suffering financial hardship. The PS highlighted that the budget is structured to support UHC by expanding health service coverage and strengthening the capacity of health facilities across the country.
Another major area addressed in the budget proposal is the integration of health systems. Dr. Oluga underscored the importance of creating a seamless, coordinated health service delivery network that efficiently links all levels of care from community health services to tertiary hospitals. This integration is expected to enhance service quality, reduce duplication of efforts, and ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care.
A significant portion of the budget is also allocated toward the digitization of health records. The move toward electronic health records is aimed at improving patient data management, reducing errors, enhancing the continuity of care, and facilitating more informed decision-making by health care providers. Digitization is seen as a critical step in modernizing the health sector and supporting data-driven health interventions.
The budget presentation also included proposed reforms at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA). These reforms focus on improving the availability and distribution of essential health commodities such as medicines, vaccines, and medical equipment. Dr. Oluga stressed that efficient supply chain management is fundamental to ensuring that health facilities are adequately stocked and capable of delivering uninterrupted services to patients. The reforms are expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency at KEMSA.
Dr. Oluga called on the committee members to support the proposed budget allocations, stressing that adequate funding is crucial for the Ministry to fulfill its mandate of delivering quality, affordable, and accessible medical services to all Kenyans. He highlighted that the health sector faces numerous challenges, including increasing demand for services, the need to upgrade infrastructure, and the necessity to invest in human resources for health. The budget is designed to address these challenges while laying a solid foundation for sustainable health sector growth.
Accompanying Dr. Oluga during the presentation were several senior officials, including the Director General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, and Chief Executive Officers of the Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies under the Ministry of Health. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort within the Ministry to align resources, policies, and programs in pursuit of the national health goals.
In conclusion, the budget estimates presented reflect a comprehensive approach to improving Kenya’s health sector. By prioritizing Universal Health Coverage, system integration, health information digitization, and supply chain reforms, the Ministry aims to enhance health outcomes and ensure that every Kenyan has access to essential medical services. The presentation marks a significant step toward securing the necessary funding and political support to implement these critical initiatives in the coming financial year.
