*DP Kithure Kindiki Reaffirms Commitment to Transform Kenya's Health Sector*
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has reiterated the government’s commitment to overhauling the health sector and addressing challenges faced by service providers.
Speaking at the First Nairobi Health Scientific Conference on Wednesday, Prof. Kindiki acknowledged the disparities in healthcare following the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA). He emphasized President William Ruto’s dedication to streamlining healthcare and vowed that the government’s reforms would surpass critics' expectations.
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“The Kenya Kwanza health agenda is grounded in the national vision to reform health institutions and ensure the new system reaches as many people as possible. Healthcare and nutrition should not be a privilege for a few but accessible and affordable for all Kenyans,” said Kindiki.
He highlighted the president’s confidence in SHA reforms, despite their challenges. “The president has affirmed that SHA and health reforms, though tough, will succeed because they are well-intentioned and aligned with our national vision,” he added.
Prof. Kindiki dismissed skepticism about the viability of comprehensive health reforms in a developing country, asserting that Kenya’s vision for healthcare transformation would prove successful.
“Some believe a developing country cannot implement a successful health reform program where even some developed nations have failed. But this program will succeed because we have a clear vision, and its impact will be transformative for our people,” he stated.
The DP emphasized that a robust healthcare system is vital for economic growth, urging stakeholders to support the rollout. “A healthier population means a more productive workforce. Yes, challenges exist, but the new system will work to benefit as many citizens as possible, ensuring healthcare is not a privilege but a right,” he said.
Prof. Kindiki also called on county governments to partner with the national government in making healthcare reforms a reality. “We urge all County Governments to collaborate with us to achieve a healthier and more productive population,” he concluded.
