UNICEF Strengthens Immunisation Partnership with Kenya to Protect Every Child
Nairobi, Kenya - - Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, hosted a high-level delegation from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance led by Thabani Maposa, in a meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in Kenya’s national immunisation programme.
The engagement reaffirmed Kenya’s sustained prioritisation of Primary Health Care as the foundation for delivering Universal Health Coverage, with a deliberate shift towards preventive, community-based healthcare systems that are accessible, people-centred, and sustainably financed.
Kenya’s financial commitment to immunisation remains firm, with approximately KES 4.6 billion allocated annually for vaccine procurement, alongside an additional KES 2.6 billion to meet co-financing obligations with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance—underscoring strong domestic ownership and long-term sustainability.
Discussions also emphasised transparency, accountability, and continuity in service delivery, with both parties agreeing to address any emerging partnership issues through structured engagement to ensure uninterrupted access to life-saving vaccines.
The meeting further noted the upcoming Africa-France Summit 2026, which will bring together leaders from across Africa and Europe to strengthen economic and diplomatic cooperation.
In advancing the local manufacturing agenda, Kenya continues to pursue World Health Organization Maturity Level 3 regulatory status and has ratified the African Medicines Agency Treaty—key milestones expected to strengthen regulatory systems, support domestic production, and expand access to safe, quality-assured medical products.
Also present were Director-General for Health Patrick Amoth, UNICEF Country Representative Shaheen Nilofer, representatives from the World Health Organization, and senior Ministry officials.