The Ministry of Health (MOH) has intensified efforts to strengthen Kenya’s preparedness against Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and other public health threats as senior health officials met to review progress and align priorities for the 2026/27 Financial Year.
The high level meeting, convened by the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, brought together Chief Executive Officers of Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs), Heads of Directorates, Divisions, and Units.
The meeting served as a strategic platform to assess ongoing programmes, strengthen coordination across agencies, and ensure that public health priorities remain aligned with emerging national and global health challenges.
Ebola Preparedness Takes Centre Stage
A key focus of the deliberations was Kenya’s readiness to prevent, detect, and respond to Ebola outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
MOH reviewed the country’s preparedness framework, including disease surveillance systems, laboratory capacity, emergency response mechanisms, and risk communication strategies.
Discussions also examined preparedness plans implemented across various agencies to ensure a coordinated response in the event of an outbreak.
The review comes at a time when countries across the region continue to monitor potential cross-border health threats and strengthen systems designed to respond rapidly to emerging diseases.
Beyond emergency preparedness, the meeting provided an opportunity for Directorates and SAGAs to present updates on their strategic priorities, achievements, and operational challenges.
The presentations highlighted progress made in delivering public health programmes while also identifying areas where greater collaboration and institutional support are required.
Whole-of-Government Approach Emphasised
PS Mary Muthoni underscored the need for heightened vigilance and stronger collaboration among government institutions.
She called for a whole-of-government approach to public health preparedness, stressing that safeguarding the country against emerging health threats requires coordinated planning, information sharing, and rapid response mechanisms.
The discussions are expected to inform implementation priorities for the 2026/27 financial year as the Ministry continues to strengthen health security and build resilience against future disease outbreaks.
