Kenya and Italy Advance Healthcare Collaboration go Universal Coverage and Pharmaceutical Production
Nairobi ,2023 Mary Muthoni Muriuki, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, met with Italy's Deputy Ambassador Lorenza Gambacorta to propel discussions on a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) within the healthcare sector.
This MoU aims to elevate Universal Health Coverage and pharmaceutical production. This meeting serves as a continuation of the MoU originally signed by President William Ruto of Kenya and Sergio Mattarella of Italy during President Mattarella's State Visit to Kenya in .
The discussions during the visit led to the establishment of multiple bilateral agreements, demonstrating the strong commitment of both countries to cooperation.
Key areas discussed within the MoU include:
1. International Development Cooperation: Kenya and Italy will jointly promote international development cooperation, sharing knowledge and experiences to enhance healthcare systems.
2. Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: The partnership seeks to bolster the local production of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, thereby enhancing healthcare self-sufficiency.
3. Human Resource Development: Collaboration will encompass knowledge exchange in specialized healthcare areas through training programs.
4. Global Health Security: The two nations will collaborate to strengthen global health security and disease control, with support from the Kenya Centre for Disease Control (CDC).
5. Regional Healthcare Hub: Plans are in progress to establish a regional healthcare hub, which will offer specialized mental healthcare services and support programs related to reproductive and maternal health.
6. Research and Training: Specialized healthcare and research institutions from both countries will collaborate on research, training, and healthcare services, with potential initiatives in health tourism being explored.
The Ministry, in collaboration with the Italian Embassy, is actively developing a framework to implement this MoU. These joint initiatives signify a promising future for Kenya and Italy, highlighting the critical role of international collaboration in advancing healthcare and achieving universal health coverage.