NAIROBI, Kenya — Ministry of Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a people-centred healthcare system anchored on the forthcoming Quality Healthcare and Patient Safety Bill, 2025, which seeks to enhance patient dignity and strengthen hospital standards across the country.
Speaking during the inaugural graduation ceremony of the M.P. Shah College of Health Sciences in Nairobi, Mr. Duale said the proposed Bill includes the Bed Capacity Access Rule, a provision designed to guarantee that “no Kenyan is ever forced to sleep on a hospital floor.”
“The government is determined to restore dignity in healthcare by ensuring that every patient receives treatment in a safe, comfortable, and humane environment,” he said.
Mr. Duale further highlighted the ongoing digital reforms under the Digital Superhighway initiative, noting that technology is being leveraged to enhance accountability within the health sector.
“We are identifying unqualified practitioners and curbing fraud within the Social Health Authority (SHA) through digital verification and data integration systems,” he said, adding that the reforms aim to strengthen public confidence and service delivery.
Addressing the alarming rise in maternal and newborn deaths, Mr. Duale directed a nationwide survey to establish accurate data, ensure each case is audited, and inform targeted interventions.
“Beyond the numbers, our mission is to save lives and uphold dignity in care,” he emphasized.
The event, attended by health professionals, faculty, and families of the graduates, concluded with the Nurses’ Oath and Candle Lighting ceremony, where graduates recited the Nightingale Pledge — a traditional commitment to compassion, service, and lifelong dedication to humanity.
The Quality Healthcare and Patient Safety Bill, 2025, is part of the government’s broader efforts under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) framework, which prioritizes equitable access, transparency, and professional accountability in Kenya’s health system.
