The Ministry of Health has officially commenced preparations for the Presidential National Health Summit 2026 following the inaugural meeting of the National Planning Committee chaired by Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health Aden Duale.
The Summit will serve as a landmark national platform bringing together leaders and stakeholders from across the health sector to review Kenya’s health reform journey, showcase achievements, address emerging challenges and define the next phase of reforms towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Additionally, the forum will highlight the significant progress made under the leadership of President William Ruto and the Fifth Administration, including reforms in health financing, primary healthcare, digital health, legislation, governance and regulation.
It will also provide an opportunity to build national consensus on priority actions required to strengthen the health system and improve health outcomes for all Kenyans.
Opening the inaugural Planning Committee meeting, CS Duale described the Summit as a defining moment for Kenya’s health sector, calling on all planning committees and participating institutions to deliver a Summit that reflects measurable achievements, evidence-based reforms and practical recommendations for the future.
He equally emphasized the importance of innovation, accountability and effective coordination in presenting one coherent national story of Kenya’s health transformation.
The CS further acknowledged the continued support of Kenya’s development and implementing partners, stating, “strong collaboration across Government institutions, agencies and partners remains essential in advancing sustainable health sector reforms and achieving Universal Health Coverage”.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni, Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, senior Ministry officials, Heads of Directorates, Divisions and Units, technical and administrative teams, as well as Chief Executive Officers of State Corporations, regulatory authorities and other health sector agencies.
By Michael Omondi
