During a key meeting held alongside the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, emphasized the urgent need for more action-driven approaches within global health financing mechanisms. Speaking at a breakfast session with the Global Financing Facility (GFF), he commended the organization’s efforts in supporting countries like Kenya, particularly in areas crucial to maternal and child health, the health workforce, and the availability of essential medical commodities.
Dr. Oluga recognized the significant role the GFF plays in shaping healthcare delivery across low- and middle-income countries, especially through its support in boosting blood reserves, which are vital in reducing mortality rates among women and children. He noted that Kenya has already benefited from GFF-backed initiatives and expressed the country’s continued commitment to partnering with the organization.
Highlighting Kenya’s progress in health sector reforms, Dr. Oluga pointed to the digitization of health records as a transformative step that has improved data accuracy, visibility, and usage. The digitization effort, he said, is enabling healthcare providers and policymakers to make informed decisions, thereby enhancing service delivery and accountability across the sector.
Despite acknowledging the successes, Dr. Oluga challenged the GFF to rethink and restructure some of its internal processes. He noted that while the institution has achieved a lot, there is a pressing need to enhance stakeholder engagement and cohesion. To this end, he proposed a more action-oriented model, one that moves beyond high-level discussions to the implementation of impactful solutions.
To accelerate progress on health outcomes, Dr. Oluga advocated for the adoption of a Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) framework. This model, known for driving short-term measurable results within a defined period, could be instrumental in energizing GFF-supported projects and ensuring quick wins on the ground. He emphasized that RRIs would not only galvanize local health actors but also instill a results-driven culture within the GFF’s operational framework.
Furthermore, the PS stressed the importance of translating health policies into practical support for devolved units. He called for timely policy implementation that reflects both national priorities and the needs of local communities. Supporting county-level health systems, he argued, is essential to achieving equity in health service delivery across the country.
Dr. Oluga also pointed to the evolving global financing landscape, noting that traditional models may no longer be sufficient. With shifts in donor funding, economic pressures, and emerging health threats, he called on the GFF and other international partners to reconsider their strategies. He advocated for the scaling up of innovations that are adaptable, sustainable, and context-specific.
He concluded by urging all stakeholders to align efforts, pool resources efficiently, and stay focused on measurable health outcomes. In his view, the global health community must rise to meet the current challenges with agility and purpose, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations are not left behind in the pursuit of health equity and universal coverage.
