Regional Leaders Meet in Nairobi to Address Health Threats on Transport Corridors
Nairobi, Kenya - - Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale has emphasised the growing need to strengthen public health systems along Africa’s major transport routes, noting that increased mobility continues to influence the spread of diseases and shape regional development.
Speaking at the 2nd Transport Corridors & Health Conference at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the CS cited recent public health threats — including Marburg virus disease in Ethiopia, anthrax cases in Kenya, and cholera outbreaks across East Africa — as clear reminders of the vulnerabilities that exist along key transport corridors such as the Northern Corridor. The conference was held under the theme “Innovations and Partnerships for Healthy & Prosperous Corridors.”
Convened by the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority, the meeting brought together regional experts to discuss strategies that integrate health, trade, and development while supporting Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
CS Duale noted that corridor health challenges extend beyond infectious diseases, pointing to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, mental health concerns, driver fatigue, substance use, and road safety issues that directly affect regional security and economic productivity.
He highlighted Kenya’s progress in strengthening cross-border surveillance, improving laboratory coordination, and expanding genomic monitoring capacity. The CS also commended innovative approaches such as the North Star Alliance’s Blue Box/Roadside Wellness Centres, which provided more than 200,000 clients with essential health services last year.
Duale underscored the role of technology, artificial intelligence, and data-driven planning in improving early detection, response, and prevention along transport routes. He called for sustained partnerships involving governments, regional institutions, the private sector, researchers, and communities to address corridor health challenges comprehensively.
He urged stakeholders to prioritise practical solutions and long-term financing, noting that transport corridors must serve not only as channels of trade but also as pathways to opportunity, resilience, and improved health outcomes.
The conference brought together leaders and technical experts from across the region, including KEMRI Director General Prof. Elijah Songok, North Star Alliance Chairperson Bernard Kadasia, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms Mary Muthoni, and IGAD Head of Mission to Kenya Dr Fatma Adan, among other dignitaries.