Kenya is advancing its health system through strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing efficiency, protecting public health achievements, and fostering long-term sustainability and self-reliance, said Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services. Speaking at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Global Initiative on Health and the Economy panel, 'One Year On: Retrospective on the America First Global Health Strategy,' Oluga highlighted the Government-to-Government collaboration with the United States as a critical framework for aligning technical and financial support with Kenya’s national health priorities. 'We are keen on sustainability, self-reliance, and improving the in-built efficiencies of the healthcare system,' he stated during the event, which took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The PS outlined Kenya’s structured approach to health partnerships, including mechanisms for technical engagement, governance, oversight, and implementation. These efforts, he explained, focus on strengthening health institutions, streamlining service delivery, and ensuring sustainable investment. Oluga emphasized the importance of safeguarding progress in key health areas such as HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, maternal and child health, disease surveillance, and global health security while building a resilient health system. The panel, which included U.S. Department of State Senior Advisor Brad Smith, Dominican Republic Vice Minister of Public Health Andelys de la Rosa, and Nigeria’s National Health Insurance Authority Director-General Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, underscored the role of international collaboration in addressing global health challenges.
The discussion, moderated by Merck Executive Vice President Chirfi Guindo, reflected broader conversations at UNGA about the intersection of health and economic stability. Oluga’s remarks underscored Kenya’s commitment to leveraging partnerships to achieve self-reliance without compromising public health outcomes. 'Our approach ensures that resources are directed toward strengthening institutional capacity and operational efficiency,' he said, citing the need for coordinated efforts to address both immediate health needs and systemic challenges. The event highlighted the growing emphasis on multilateral cooperation as a cornerstone of global health strategies.
Kenya’s health partnerships are part of a broader regional and international effort to align development goals with local priorities. By integrating technical expertise and financial support from partners like the U.S., the country aims to create a model of sustainability that balances external assistance with domestic capacity-building. Oluga’s participation in the forum reinforced Kenya’s role as a key player in shaping health policies that prioritize resilience, equity, and long-term impact. The dialogue also emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in health governance to ensure that progress remains inclusive and measurable.