Ministry Strengthens Ties with Faith-Based Organizations to Enhance Healthcare in Kenya

Dr. Barasa outlined key government initiatives aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

The Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare in Kenya through strengthened collaboration with Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs). Speaking at a consultative meeting in Mombasa, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa highlighted the critical role that FBOs play in providing healthcare, particularly in underserved communities.

Dr. Barasa outlined key government initiatives aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). These efforts include:

A fully funded primary healthcare system.

The use of enhanced ICT integration to streamline service delivery.

The introduction of a Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), which is designed to provide coverage for all Kenyans, ensuring no one is excluded from essential healthcare services.

"Our goal is to make healthcare accessible to every Kenyan, and we recognize that FBOs are crucial partners in reaching those most in need," Dr. Barasa said, urging these organizations to remain active participants in these initiatives.

To date, the newly formed Social Health Authority (SHA) has already registered over 12.7 million Kenyans as part of the government's push for comprehensive health insurance.

Additionally, Dr. Barasa discussed legislative reforms, including the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023, which replaces the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) Act. These reforms aim to make healthcare more affordable and to provide sustainable financing for essential services.

As Kenya continues to pursue UHC, Dr. Barasa called for continued collaboration between the government and FBOs to ensure that every citizen has access to quality healthcare, emphasizing, "We must remain united in this mission to ensure that every Kenyan can access the healthcare they deserve."