President William Ruto has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening emergency medical response and rescue services across the country through enhanced support for St. John Ambulance Kenya.
Speaking during the organisation’s 95th Annual Parade Inspection and the launch of its Strategic Plan at State House, Nairobi, the president outlined a comprehensive package of reforms and investments designed to improve emergency response systems and expand access to first aid services.
Among the key commitments is a nationwide initiative to ensure that at least one person in every Kenyan household is trained in first aid. The government also plans to expand ambulance coverage, emergency response systems and rescue services to improve the country’s preparedness for accidents and disasters.
To strengthen the organisation’s capacity, the government has allocated one acre of land in Upper Hill, Nairobi, for the construction of a St. John Ambulance National Training and Coordination Centre. President Ruto directed that the title deed for the land be issued immediately, with the process expected to be completed on Monday, June 22.
How will the government support St. John Ambulance?
The president further announced that Parliament will provide KSh 300 million towards the construction of the new headquarters, while the national government will contribute an additional KSh 200 million. Construction of the facility is expected to begin immediately.
In a major boost to emergency healthcare services, the government plans to launch a National Ambulance Dispatch Centre by the end of July 2026. The facility is expected to coordinate up to 100,000 emergency evacuations annually at no cost to Kenyans.
President Ruto also affirmed that the Social Health Authority (SHA)’s emergency fund will continue covering accident victims during the first 24 hours of treatment, helping to ensure timely medical intervention during emergencies.
To enhance emergency response capacity, the government will procure 15 modern ambulances for St. John Ambulance. The ambulances will be integrated into services offered under the Social Health Authority framework.
The president further pledged to support efforts by Parliament to review and strengthen legislation governing St. John Ambulance, while announcing that the organisation will receive KSh 100 million in annual government support.
The commitments are expected to greatly enhance Kenya’s emergency medical response system while strengthening the role of St. John Ambulance in providing lifesaving services across the country.
