Ministry Launches Preparations for Presidential National Health Summit 2026
Nairobi, Kenya - - 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 for Health, Hon. Aden Duale.
The Summit is envisioned as a landmark national forum that will bring together leaders and stakeholders from across the health sector to take stock of Kenya’s health reform journey, celebrate achievements and chart the next phase of healthcare transformation towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The forum will provide an opportunity for the country to reflect on the milestones achieved under the leadership of H.E. President William Ruto and the Fifth Administration in advancing UHC. It will showcase key reforms implemented across health financing, primary healthcare, digital health, legislation, governance and regulation, while fostering consensus on the priorities that will shape the future of Kenya’s health sector.
The inaugural Planning Committee meeting officially launched an inclusive planning process that will culminate in a comprehensive national dialogue on the state of healthcare in Kenya. Beyond highlighting progress, the Summit will facilitate honest reflection on existing challenges, promote evidence-based discussions and generate practical policy and implementation priorities to accelerate the delivery of equitable, quality and accessible healthcare for all Kenyans.
Addressing the Committee, Hon. Duale described the Summit as a defining milestone that will shape the future direction of Kenya’s health sector. He called on all planning committees and participating institutions to approach the assignment with diligence, innovation and a shared sense of purpose, emphasizing that every thematic area should demonstrate tangible achievements, measurable outcomes and practical proposals that will strengthen ongoing reforms.
The Cabinet Secretary further underscored the importance of effective coordination, accountability and strong institutional collaboration in delivering a successful Summit. He also acknowledged the continued technical and financial support of Kenya’s development and implementing partners, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to deepening health sector reforms and achieving Universal Health Coverage for all Kenyans.
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, underscoring the collective commitment to building a stronger, more resilient and people-centred health system.