President William Ruto has called on Japan to support Kenya in bolstering its healthcare system, particularly in advancing universal health coverage (UHC). Speaking on Wednesday, August 20, during Kenya’s investment forum in Yokohama, the Head of State said Kenya was seeking deeper collaboration with Japan in diagnostics, research, and deployment of technology to improve service delivery.
Ruto emphasized that technology-driven solutions would be critical in eliminating wastage, improving efficiency, and strengthening health financing. He underscored Kenya’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships to address gaps in healthcare, while also highlighting the longstanding economic and development cooperation between the two nations.
“I am delighted to be with you as our partnership with Japan advances with reinvigorated energy, expanding in scope, deepening in substance, and delivering tangible outcomes to our peoples,” he told delegates.
The request comes against the backdrop of mounting challenges within Kenya’s healthcare system, including inadequate resources, staff shortages, and inefficiencies in the national health insurance program. While the government has introduced reforms to improve service delivery, many Kenyans remain unconvinced, particularly regarding the new Social Health Authority (SHA).
The SHA, which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), has faced criticism from citizens who argue that the contributions are costly and the benefits inadequate. To ease the burden, the government launched the SHA Lipa Pole Pole initiative, allowing Kenyans to pay their annual contributions in flexible installments—monthly, weekly, or even daily—based on their income levels.
During the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations in June, Ruto said the initiative would help families maintain continuous coverage without financial strain while also safeguarding the sustainability of the health insurance fund.
Kenya’s pursuit of Japanese support is seen as part of a broader strategy to blend international partnerships with domestic reforms. If successful, the partnership could bring advanced health technologies, stronger diagnostic capacity, and improved financing systems that may ultimately enhance access and affordability for millions of Kenyans.
