NAIROBI, Kenya — Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has held talks with officials from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) aimed at strengthening regional health security and deepening collaboration across Eastern Africa.
In a statement, Duale said the meeting reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to advancing the Africa CDC agenda and enhancing partnerships to build resilient and self-sufficient health systems.
The discussions brought together Africa CDC representatives, including Raji Tajudeen, who represented Director General Jean Kaseya, and Lul Riek, Special Representative and Regional Advisor for the Eastern Africa Regional Coordinating Centre.
Since 2017, Kenya has hosted the Eastern Africa Regional Coordinating Centre, coordinating health security efforts across 14 member states—a role officials say underscores the country’s leadership in regional preparedness and response.
“Our discussions focused on building resilient, self-sufficient health systems… particularly in advancing local manufacturing of health products as a pillar of health security,” Duale said.
The meeting also reviewed progress in emergency preparedness, diagnostics, and the local production of essential medical supplies, key components of strengthening Africa’s capacity to respond to public health threats.
Duale said Kenya is working to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding on land allocation and financial support for the establishment and expansion of the regional centre.
The engagement aligns with the broader health agenda of President William Ruto, which prioritises local manufacturing and reduced reliance on imports for critical medical supplies.
Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni also attended the meeting.
Health experts say enhanced coordination through Africa CDC structures is critical for improving disease surveillance, emergency response, and cross-border collaboration, particularly in a region prone to outbreaks and health emergencies.
The talks signal continued efforts by Kenya and regional partners to strengthen collective health security through innovation, investment, and institutional cooperation.
