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Kenya's Commitment to Address Pressing Health Issues: CS Nakhumicha's Address at the 76th World Health Assembly

Geneva, May 22, 2022  - Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nakhumicha S. Wafula, delivered a compelling statement at the 76th World Health Assembly (WHA), outlining Kenya's resolute commitment to addressing pressing health issues on a global scale. With a clear focus on Health for All, CS Nakhumicha emphasized the urgent need to tackle key challenges and pave the way for a healthier future.
 
Acknowledging the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, CS Nakhumicha highlighted the vital lessons learned and emphasized the urgent need for improved global, regional, and national health emergency structures. The assembly provided a platform to address these gaps and foster collaborative solutions that can effectively respond to health emergencies.
 
As Kenya actively participates in shaping a new Pandemic Treaty, CS Nakhumicha emphasized the importance of addressing the multifaceted challenges that hindered a swift and coordinated response to the pandemic. The commitment to entrenching greater equity in global health became a central theme, emphasizing the imperative to leave no one behind in the pursuit of better health outcomes.
 
Furthermore, CS Nakhumicha shed light on Kenya's transformative approach to healthcare, prioritizing preventive and promotive measures over curative interventions. This strategic shift aligns with Kenya's broader socioeconomic agenda, focusing on key actions that include strengthening the health workforce, enhancing health financing architecture, ensuring health commodity security, and leveraging integrated digital technologies for more efficient healthcare delivery.
 
By delivering regional statements on behalf of the Commonwealth Health Ministers and the East, Central, and Southern Africa Health Community, CS Nakhumicha showcased Kenya's commitment to regional collaboration and emphasized the importance of investing in primary healthcare, digital health integration, and pandemic prevention and preparedness capacities.
 
CS Nakhumicha reaffirmed the Government of Kenya's unwavering dedication to reforming the multilateral system for greater inclusivity and effective solutions to tackle today's complex health challenges. The assembly provided a pivotal opportunity to rally political will, secure necessary resources, and foster sustainable partnerships to ensure a future where Health for All becomes a tangible reality.