Ministry of Health Seeks Parliament’s Backing for 2025/2026 Budget to Boost Healthcare Access

By IVY GESARE

The Ministry of Health has submitted its budget proposal for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, seeking Parliament’s approval to enhance the quality, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare services for all Kenyans.

Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, presented the proposal before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health, chaired by Seme MP Dr. James Nyikal.

Dr. Oluga emphasized that the proposed budget prioritizes major improvements to Kenya’s healthcare system.

“We are working to bring quality healthcare closer to every Kenyan, no matter where they live,” he said. “This budget is about turning that dream into reality.”

Key focus areas include expanding Universal Health Coverage (UHC), integrating healthcare services more efficiently, digitizing patient records, and ensuring hospitals are adequately stocked with medicine and essential supplies. The reforms also include restructuring the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to improve the nationwide delivery of medical commodities.

“Digitization will help doctors and nurses access patient records faster and make better decisions,” Dr. Oluga explained. “It also promotes transparency and more effective use of resources.”

Dr. Oluga was accompanied by the Director General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, and other senior officials, who elaborated on the direct impact the reforms would have on everyday citizens.

“When a mother walks into a health center with a sick child, she shouldn’t have to worry about whether the medicine is available,” said Dr. Amoth. “That’s the kind of problem we are working to fix.”

The team urged Parliament to approve the proposed funding, stating it would enable the Ministry to fulfill its mission of providing high-quality, accessible healthcare to all Kenyans.

This budget forms part of the government’s broader strategy to build a resilient healthcare system that serves both urban and rural populations effectively.

“This isn’t just a policy matter,” Dr. Oluga concluded. “It’s personal. Every Kenyan deserves healthcare they can rely on.”