Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has been honoured by the World Health Organization (WHO) for his leadership and commitment in supporting the landmark WHO Pandemic Agreement. The recognition came during a special event held at WHO Headquarters in Geneva on July 10, 2025, where global leaders who played a crucial role in advocating for the agreement were celebrated.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended the leaders for their unwavering political support that made the agreement a reality. “The adoption by the World Health Assembly of the Pandemic Agreement was a historic moment in global health. But we would not have reached that moment without sustained political advocacy from the highest levels,” Dr. Tedros said.
The WHO Pandemic Agreement seeks to bolster global preparedness and response to future pandemics through enhanced international collaboration, equity, and accountability. It emphasizes the need for timely access to information, fair distribution of resources, and a coordinated global approach to public health emergencies.
Uhuru Kenyatta joins a distinguished list of current and former heads of state acknowledged for their strategic guidance and support. Kenya was recognised alongside 24 other countries including France, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Indonesia, Rwanda, and Senegal.
Representatives of Chile and Tunisia received special plaques in honour of former President Sebastián Piñera and President Kais Saied, who were among the earliest champions of the agreement.
The WHO Pandemic Agreement builds on the momentum initiated in 2021 when 25 world leaders issued a joint commentary calling for a unified global treaty to address future pandemics. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening global health systems and ensuring that no country is left behind in future health crises.
Already, work is underway to implement key provisions of the agreement. These include mechanisms for access to pathogens, equitable benefit sharing, and establishing an intergovernmental working group to oversee its operationalisation.
The recognition of Uhuru Kenyatta underscores Kenya’s growing role on the global health stage and highlights the country’s contribution to shaping a more resilient and cooperative international health framework.
