AKU Institute for Human Development

PS Oluga Calls for Evidence-Driven Action to Address Healthcare Gaps Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, has called for accelerated, evidence-driven interventions to address persistent gaps in Kenya’s healthcare system, urging stakeholders to translate health data into targeted action to improve service delivery and health outcomes. Speaking during the official launch of the 2025/26 Kenya Mini Demographic and Health Survey (KMDHS) report at Ole Sereni Hotel, Dr. Oluga said the findings provide an important basis for assessing progress, identifying inequalities and guiding policy decisions and resource allocation. The PS welcomed improvements in maternal healthcare, with facility deliveries increasing from 88 to 91 per cent and health insurance coverage rising from 26 per cent in 2022 to 39 per cent. However, he expressed concern over declining full-schedule childhood immunisation coverage, which dropped from 55 to 46 per cent, and persistent newborn mortality at 19 deaths per 1,000 live births. He called for renewed efforts to strengthen immunisation, maternal and newborn care, nutrition and reproductive health services. Dr. Oluga highlighted ongoing Universal Health Coverage reforms under Taifa Care, including the expansion of primary healthcare, improved access to maternity services through the Social Health Authority (SHA), investments in health infrastructure and equipment, and digital transformation. He noted that the National Equipment Support Programme has equipped 443 health facilities across 15 specialised service areas, enabling the delivery of at least 1.43 million services, while digital health systems continue to strengthen planning, accountability and service delivery. On financial protection, the PS emphasised the need to accelerate SHA enrolment, particularly among vulnerable households, and address barriers to accessing healthcare services. He urged national and county governments, development partners, health professionals, researchers and communities to use the survey findings to guide targeted interventions, improve quality of care, ensure reliable medical commodities and promote equitable resource allocation. The launch was attended by WHO Representative Dr. Neema Kimambo; Prof. Amina Abubakar, Director of the Institute for Human Development at Aga Khan University; KNBS Board Chair Dr. Daniel Mwirigi; Acting KNBS Director General Mr. Benjamin Avusevwa; development partners; and officials from the Ministry of Health and the State Department for Economic Planning.