Kenya has reiterated its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through strategic international partnerships, following a high-level meeting between Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and a visiting UK parliamentary delegation at Afya House in Nairobi.

The delegation, led by UK Member of Parliament Michael Payne, was in the country on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, to explore collaborative opportunities aligned with Kenya’s sweeping healthcare reforms. The discussions centered on healthcare financing, local manufacturing of medical products, and enhancing emergency medical response.

CS Duale emphasized the country’s determination to deliver UHC through the Taifa Care Model and the Social Health Insurance Fund, highlighting ongoing support from global partners such as the Global Fund in providing free HIV, TB, and malaria treatment to Kenyans.

“We are focused on building a resilient, sustainable health system. Our success depends on strong global partnerships that help us invest in local solutions and improve patient outcomes,” said Duale.

The UK delegation included officials from the British High Commission Tim Roca and Eduarda Mendonça-Gray alongside Global Fund Senior Portfolio Manager Paul MacCarrick. They met with top Kenyan health officials, including Public Health PS Mary Muthoni and Director General for Health Patrick Amoth.

Duale underscored the need to reduce Kenya’s reliance on medical imports through expanded local manufacturing. He also proposed the establishment of a dedicated emergency medical treatment fund, particularly to support cancer patients and other critical cases requiring urgent care.

“Investment in local production of essential health products is a priority. It ensures sustainability, quick access, and national resilience,” he noted.

Digital innovation in healthcare also took center stage, with the CS expressing Kenya’s intention to harness technology for efficient service delivery, better data management, and improved accountability.

“Our partnership with the UK will also strengthen digital health systems to improve transparency and enhance patient outcomes,” he said.

The visit reflects Kenya’s deepening diplomatic and development ties with the UK, with healthcare increasingly emerging as a shared priority.

Duale affirmed that sustained collaboration with development partners, particularly the Global Fund and the UK Government, is critical in ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for every Kenyan.

“This engagement marks a key step in our journey toward a people-centered health system. We cannot succeed without meaningful partnerships,” he said.