President Uhuru Kenyatta has emphasized the importance of continued vaccination efforts and caution against Covid-19 transmission, even as containment measures ease. Speaking at the 92nd inspection parade of St John Ambulance Kenya in Nairobi, he called on citizens to prioritize booster shots to end the pandemic.
The President announced a Ksh 150 million annual government sponsorship for the organization, with Ksh 100 million allocated for the current financial year. He also highlighted the need for youth engagement, directing the Ministry of Education to create initiatives recognizing student volunteers under the Competency Based Curriculum framework.
St John Ambulance Kenya, established in 1923, received praise for its role in pandemic response, including vaccine administration and public awareness campaigns. The President commended its leadership in pre-hospital care, noting the organization's contribution to Kenya's growing first aider population.
He also outlined road safety reforms, directing the Ministry of Transport to mandate first aid training for drivers as part of its 2023-2027 medium-term plan. A pilot program for boda boda riders includes first aid certification, with 200 participants already enrolled.
In a separate ceremony, Kenyatta was knighted to the Order of the St John for his humanitarian work. The honor, conferred by the Order’s Chancellor Dr Gillian Willmore, came as he pledged continued global service beyond his presidential tenure.
