Kenya backs IGAD programme to boost regional pandemic response
According to PS Muthoni, the programme will focus on improving healthcare infrastructure, strengthening disease surveillance, engaging communities, and ensuring the supply of vaccines and essential medical resources.
Kenya has confirmed its commitment to building stronger regional defenses against future health emergencies with the launch of the IGAD Pandemic Preparedness and Response Initiative in Uganda.
The programme aims to improve early detection, accelerate response times, and enhance pandemic management across IGAD member states.
Speaking at the Speke Munyonyo Resort Conference Centre during the official launch, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, said Kenya fully supports the initiative.
“Proactive preparation, early detection, and rapid regional collaboration save lives and protect economies. No country can do it alone. We must work together to safeguard our people,” she stated.
The programme will focus on improving healthcare infrastructure, strengthening disease surveillance, engaging communities, and ensuring the supply of vaccines and essential medical resources.
PS Muthoni highlighted that the initiative aligns with Kenya’s second National Action Plan for Health Security, which is currently being finalized, and is rooted in the Health Sector Strategic Plan, the Constitution, and the Bottom-up Transformation Agenda.
She underlined that preparing for pandemics is a shared responsibility involving the government, civil society, private sector, communities, and international partners. “Kenya remains committed to transparency, accountability, and partnerships. Together, through solidarity and proactive action, we can build a healthier, more resilient IGAD region,” she added.
The PS stressed the importance of cross-border cooperation, particularly in Kenya’s northern and western corridors, where ecosystems, trade routes, and migratory populations overlap. Kenya will coordinate with neighbouring states on joint surveillance, harmonised travel and trade guidance, and shared contingency planning.
PS Muthoni also acknowledged the critical role of development partners and supporting organizations in turning the vision of a resilient regional health system into reality. The initiative comes as IGAD countries aim to learn from COVID-19 and other recent health crises to ensure better preparedness for future outbreaks.
