The Ministry of Health has today marked a key leadership transition with Dr. Ouma Oluga officially assuming office as the new Principal Secretary for Medical Services.
He takes over from Mr. Harry Kimtai, who has been redeployed to the State Department for Mining.
During the handover ceremony held in Nairobi, Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale urged ministry officials to remain committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity, as enshrined in Chapter 10 of the Constitution.
He emphasized that these values are crucial for effective policy execution, financial stewardship, and quality service delivery.
Hon. Duale called for unity within the ministry and collective support for Dr. Oluga, particularly in the rollout of the Taifa Care Model and the operationalization of the Social Health Authority (SHA) under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) framework.
He reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to restoring order in the health sector and ensuring equitable access to quality health care for all Kenyans.
In his address, Dr. Oluga expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to lead with commitment and purpose.
He reaffirmed his dedication to strengthening the health system and accelerating the implementation of UHC, a key pillar under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
He stressed the importance of rebuilding public trust in health services and highlighted the role of a well-supported health workforce in achieving lasting reforms.
Acknowledging the challenges experienced during the transition from NHIF to SHA, the Cabinet Secretary expressed full confidence in Dr. Oluga’s leadership, noting his blend of technical expertise and deep sectoral knowledge as vital to the success of ongoing reforms.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s focus on delivering affordable, dignified, and people-centered healthcare.
The event was attended by outgoing PS Mr. Harry Kimtai, PS for Public Health Mary Muthoni, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, Chief Executive Officers of State Corporations, and directors from various technical departments under the Ministry.
