GARISSA, Kenya — Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has lauded devolution as one of Kenya’s most transformative governance reforms, saying it has significantly improved access to healthcare by bringing essential services closer to communities.
Speaking during the 2026 Devolution Sensitization Week in Garissa County, held under the theme “Devolution for Better Health, Empowered Communities,” Duale said county governments have played a critical role in responding to local health needs while expanding access to quality healthcare.
“Devolution has brought healthcare services closer to communities while enabling county governments to better respond to local health needs,” Duale said.
Progress in Health Sector
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted gains achieved since the introduction of devolved healthcare, including the expansion of health infrastructure, recruitment and strengthening of the health workforce, improved primary healthcare services and increased investment in community health programmes.
He noted that while county governments are responsible for healthcare service delivery, the National Government continues to provide policy direction, regulatory oversight, strategic financing and technical support to ensure an effective and coordinated health system.
Duale said the partnership between the two levels of government remains essential in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Call to Address Health Disparities
The Cabinet Secretary said hosting this year’s Devolution Sensitization Week in Garissa underscored the Government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to healthcare across the country.
While acknowledging progress made by Garissa County in expanding health services, he stressed the need to address existing disparities to ensure every Kenyan can access quality healthcare regardless of location.
Focus on Maternal and Newborn Health
Duale reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to reducing preventable maternal and newborn deaths through the strengthening of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response programme.
He also commended the Council of Governors for spearheading the Inter-County Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response Initiative, saying it has enhanced collaboration, accountability and the sharing of best practices among counties.
Health Reforms Underway
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted ongoing reforms in the health sector, including the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA), expansion of Primary Healthcare, strengthening of Community Health Promoters and the rollout of Primary Care Networks.
He described the initiatives as key pillars in building an inclusive, resilient and sustainable healthcare system.
Industrial Harmony Critical
Recognising healthcare workers as the backbone of service delivery, Duale called for continued dialogue between the Ministry of Health, county governments, the Council of Governors, healthcare worker unions and other stakeholders to resolve workforce issues amicably.
He said industrial harmony is essential to ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for Kenyans.
The Cabinet Secretary also acknowledged the contribution of development partners, faith-based organisations, civil society and the private sector in supporting county health systems and advancing national health priorities.
Preparing for Kenya Health Summit 2026
As Kenya prepares for the Kenya Health Summit 2026, Duale urged counties to build on the lessons, innovations and partnerships showcased during the Devolution Sensitization Week to strengthen intergovernmental collaboration, improve accountability and accelerate the achievement of Universal Health Coverage.
The forum brought together leaders from both levels of government, including Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, Mombasa Governor and Council of Governors Health Committee Chairperson Abdulswamad Nassir, Senate Devolution Committee Chairperson Mohamed Abass, National Assembly Devolution Committee Chairperson Peter Lochakapong, Council of Governors CEO Mary Mwiti and senior national and county government officials.