Kenya has intensified its call for sweeping reforms in global health systems as Health CS Aden Duale outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at strengthening equity, resilience and preparedness in the face of emerging global health threats.
Speaking against the backdrop of ongoing outbreaks and structural weaknesses in international health systems, Duale emphasized that the world is now confronted not with the question of whether reform is necessary, but whether there is sufficient collective resolve to build a fair, representative and fit-for-purpose global health order.
He noted that Kenya is already undertaking domestic reforms targeting health workforce capacity, service delivery systems and digital health infrastructure to ensure universal access to essential health services and commodities.
Equity as the Foundation of Global Health Governance
Central to Kenya’s position is the principle of equity, which Duale stressed must become the organizing principle of global health governance.
He expressed concern over the ongoing Ebola virus disease outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, calling for an urgent, coordinated and adequately financed global response.
He argued that outbreaks affecting African countries must receive the same level of urgency, solidarity and scientific investment as those occurring elsewhere in the world.
On regional preparedness, Duale highlighted the need to strengthen local manufacturing and supply chain systems as a cornerstone of pandemic readiness.
CS Duale stated that Africa is shifting from dependency to sustainable production, technology transfer and strategic investment, urging multilateral institutions to align with evolving global health realities.
He added that resilient regional systems are essential for reducing vulnerability during health emergencies.
Reforming Multilateral Health Institutions
In addition, Duale underscored the importance of reforming multilateral health institutions, including the World Health Organization, to enhance legitimacy, inclusivity and trust.
He emphasized that bodies such as the World Health Organization and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention must remain central to global health governance while being adequately empowered to respond to future crises.
CS Duale called for sustainable global health financing frameworks that support domestic resource mobilization and strengthen country ownership.
He stressed that long-term health system resilience depends on predictable financing mechanisms and stronger alignment between global support and national priorities, reinforcing Kenya’s position that reform of global health architecture is both urgent and unavoidable.
