The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale, has called on Kenya’s nurses and midwives to take a frontline role in the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Social Health Authority (SHA) programs. In a strategic engagement with representatives led by Dr. Judith Awinja, Head of Nursing and Midwifery Services at the Ministry of Health, the CS underscored the pivotal role of nurses and midwives—who constitute over 70% of the national health workforce—in driving transformative health reforms.
CS Duale emphasized that nurses and midwives are the bridge between policy and people, vital in building community trust, mobilizing resources, and improving family health outcomes. These contributions, he noted, are central to achieving Kenya’s UHC goals.
He provided updates on the SHA packages, which include critical services such as maternity care, emergency services, chronic disease management, and palliative care. He urged the nursing and midwifery workforce to lead the registration drive and community sensitization for SHA, ensuring that citizens understand and access the available services.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the CS highlighted ongoing investments in health worker training, facility upgrades, and inclusive policy development. He also pointed to the rollout of the electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) and plans to integrate frontline health workers, especially nurses, into Kenya’s upcoming Artificial Intelligence in Health strategy.
The meeting was attended by key health leaders including Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, and Secretary Administration Mr. Adan Harakhe.
