This archive report was first published on 4 September 2019.
Kenya's Ministry of Health has made a significant shift in its approach to addressing the country's healthcare challenges, admitting that the Cuban doctor program has failed to meet expectations.
Initially, Kenya had agreed to a deal that would see 100 Cuban doctors come to the country, with 47 specialists and 53 family physicians deployed to various counties. In return, Kenya secured space for its 50 doctors to study in Cuba, renowned for its world-class healthcare system.
However, despite having 11,334 registered doctors, with 6,394 of them active, as per the 2018 register, the government has come to realize that addressing the country's healthcare issues requires a more localized approach.
Earlier this year, two Cuban doctors were kidnapped by suspected Al-Shabaab militants in northeastern Kenya and taken to Somalia, where they were held for ransom. The incident highlighted the risks and challenges associated with relying on foreign healthcare professionals.
According to a letter from the Ministry of Health, obtained by Kenya Insights, the government has acknowledged that the Cuban model has not worked and that the doctors have been overwhelmed by the existing health challenges.
As a result, the government has decided to incorporate local doctors into the healthcare system, recognizing their importance in addressing the country's healthcare challenges.
Kenya's decision to shift focus from Cuban doctors to local healthcare professionals is a significant step towards addressing the country's healthcare challenges in a more sustainable and effective manner.
