KBC Channel 1

Author: Maxwell Wasike

  • Dr Kamene: NPHI transition on the right track

    Dr Kamene: NPHI transition on the right track

    The acting Director General of the National Public Health Institute [NPHI] Dr Kamene Kimenye is elated with the steps her Semi Autonomous Government Agency [SAGA] is currently undergoing for acquisition of full-fledged status.

    Speaking in Nakuru on Wednesday during the Institute’s second National Strategic Planning (NSP) Drafting Workshop,Dr Kamene said that the government has already intensified plans towards NPHI’s transition.

    “Plans are at an advanced stage to make KNPHI an independent SAGA with fully working organizational structure in place.We are still under State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards and the progress towards autonomy is impressive. Early next year we are expecting more staff from the Ministry in 13 divisions to strengthen our workforce in realisation of our mandate in coordinating Kenya’s public health structure and operations and improving population health” she noted.

    NPHI is currently holding the second National Strategic Planning (NSP) Drafting Workshop which is a build-up on the draft one meeting, focusing on strategic alignment, situational analysis, stakeholder engagement, and defining a coordinated strategic response to enhance national and global health goals.

    Dr Kamene Kimenye-Ag. DG-NPHI

    Commenting on the document whose upon completion will consist of 8 chapters,the DG urged the stakeholders working on its creation to be cognizant of views of the majority to make it a highly inclusive strategic plan capturing all voices from both public health diverse individuals as well as valued external experts.

    She said Kenya has a big role to play at the regional level through support to neighboring countries in responding to public health threats,further emphasising
    importance of regional collaboration to improve health security.

    “We shouldn’t be debating on whether to have NPHI or not what we need to do is apply all the strategic mechanisms to allow us be functional and take our position as public health champions in the region. At some point we were heavyweights in research and training and it’s about time we replicate that feat in areas such as surveillance as we also strive to take leads in the growth of our public health laboratories which are essential for disease control and prevention, and are a key part of health emergency response system.There is need for a multi-agency operation framework to address complex challenges that require resources and expertise from multiple sectors. ” added Dr Kamene

    In September this year,Health Cabinet Secretary Dr Deborah Barasa in her meeting with NPHI Board acknowledged the significant role played by the body to tackle public health challenges and strengthen disease surveillance, prevention, and response by consolidating the management and coordination of key activities in prevention, and early detection.

    “Health security and public health emergency preparedness is a key focus of the government following lessons learned during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The National Public Health Institute was established in 2022 to support these efforts.Met the board for a briefing on the milestones realized towards full functioning of the institute and discussed key priorities.NPHI is important and establishment of structures and operationalizing strategies to enhance national capacities for future pandemic preparedness and response is key” read her tweet

    The Kenya National Public Health Institute (NPHI) was established through a presidential executive because of fragmented public health functions, dispersed across various sectors beyond the human health domain, result in duplication, resource wastage, and uncoordinated leadership with insufficient accountability.

    NPHIs across the globe act as their respective government agencies that provide science-based leadership and coordination for a country’s public health activities besides laying out accurate, timely information and data analysis, including on the evolving epidemiology of outbreaks and on the status of outbreak control.

  • MoH gives assurance of safe polio vaccination campaign

    MoH gives assurance of safe polio vaccination campaign

    The Government through Ministry of Health has reiterated its commitment of providing a safe and effective polio vaccination campaign in a week-long 2nd round of exercise that kicked off on Saturday with its culmination scheduled for November 13.

    Speaking at Afya house on Saturday, Health Director General Dr Patrick Amoth urged Kenyan parents, caregivers and communities to embrace the initiative and support the government agenda in containing a highly infectious and debilitating vaccine-preventable viral disease with the potential to cause paralysis and even death in a matter of hours among young children who are not fully vaccinated.

    “While there is no cure for Polio, the disease can be prevented by receiving the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) and the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV).All vaccines given by the Ministry of Health, including the polio vaccine are safe and effective in protecting our children against vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines are designed to stimulate an immune response in the body against infectious diseases, and this reaction inevitably carries a small attributable risk to the health of a minority of children. While mild side effects may occur, these often resolve quickly” noted Dr Amoth

    Targeting Kenyan children under the age of 5 years,the Ministry launched a nationwide polio vaccination campaign last month in response to a recent outbreak of circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Type 2 (cVDPV2) in Kenya. 

    The first round of vaccination was carried out from 2nd to 6th October 2024 in 9 high risk counties:Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado, West Pokot, Busia, Bungoma, Machakos.

    Already the Kenya Paediatric Association (KPA) comprising of paediatricians, clinicians, and allied healthcare workers issued a statement last month following their step of developing guidance to address concerns being raised by the relevant stakeholders regarding the campaign.

    “The MoH vaccination teams are well trained in handling and administering the oral polio vaccine, maintaining the World Health Organisation safety standards. KPA supports MoH to assure Kenyans that the vaccine is safe for our children. We have developed guidance to address concerns being raised by parents and/or caregivers about the ongoing polio vaccination campaign” read part of KPA statement

    “KPA continues to engage with MoH and other stakeholders to ensure quality healthcare for all children in Kenya. We urge all parents and/or caregivers to ensure their eligible children are vaccinated during this campaign” the statement further read.

    The government has deployed among other mechanisms use of 107,000 Community Health Promoters stationed countrywide in the campaign’s success.Oral polio vaccine has the advantage of inducing gut immunity and protection for both the immunized child and their contacts.

    Transmission of polio is feco-oral, meaning that consumption of water contaminated with polio virus can cause polio infection and in some children progress to paralysis. Circulating vaccine derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) has emerged as a public health concern in low-resourced countries with sub-optimal vaccination rates including Kenya.

    The current vaccination drive aims to protect every child in 9 high risk counties of Busia, Bungoma, Trans-nzoia, West Pokot and Turkana which will target children under 10 years of age and the entire Nairobi and selected sub counties of Kabete, Kikuyu, Kiambaa, Kiambu town, Juja,
    Ruiru and Thika

    Polio vaccination has been part of the routine childhood immunization schedule across the globe in compliance with recommendations by World Health Organisation [WHO] which emphasise need for children to get 4 doses of polio vaccine to protect them against severe polio disease, including paralysis.

  • NPHI holds Strategic Plan stakeholders’ meeting

    NPHI holds Strategic Plan stakeholders’ meeting

    The National Public Health Institute (KNPHI) is currently conducting a two-day stakeholder meeting in Naivasha, Nakuru County as part of the strategic planning process which is a pivotal opportunity to ensure synergy, collaboration, and alignment of its strategic goals with national priorities.

    Addressing on the background of various public health threats led by public health emergency of international concern such as Mpox and Marburg ,acting Director General for NPHI Dr Kamene Kimenye said the establishment of the body will help Kenya adress fragmented public health functions that are spread across sectors beyond the human health sector.

    “NPHI has come at an interesting time when there is existence of public health threats such Mpox and Marburg. Last week we had a session on the response strategy towards Marburg which is with our neighbours Rwanda.As a country,we have to demonstrate the value of early preparation, innovation, and community-driven efforts in safeguarding public health.This forum is aimed at producing fundamental decisions and actions that will shape and guide what we are as well as what we do.A  strong public health strategic plan is one that considers health as a holistic effort, rather than one specific investment ” said Dr Kamene.

    The Program Manager for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Fatima Ravat emphasised need for an NPHI being a home for public health activities and workforce through a strong and networked functions such as surveillance, labs and emergency response.

    While urging other relevant stakeholders to support the activities of the new Semi Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGA),Fatima reiterated CDC commitment of continued partnerships with Kenya to strengthen its broad based mandate of addressing public health, safety and security threats.

    “NPHI should be the focal point to prevent, detect and respond to public health threats and emergencies. Besides development of public health workforce and promoting healthy communities and best health practices, we are determined to carry on with our global role to international health concerns and support governments in over 60 countries Kenya forming part of our critical partners” she remarked

    NPHI which came into effect to enhance and safeguard lives by defending against existing and emerging public health threats, through vigilant surveillance, scientific innovations among others is currently taking the lead in the response against Marburg oubreak as one of the models of effective management of public crises.

    The strategic plan is expected to focus on addressing health disparities, promoting health equity, enhancing access to quality healthcare, and strengthening preparedness for infectious diseases and emerging pandemics.

  • From the rural village of Kajiado to the world. Koitatoi Kidali earns a scholarship to the University of Oregon

    From the rural village of Kajiado to the world. Koitatoi Kidali earns a scholarship to the University of Oregon

    Kenya’s 800m sensation has earned a mouth-watering move to the United States of America after securing a prestigious scholarship at the University of Oregon months after his successful debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics in France.

    The 22 year old who left the country on Thursday night was full of praise for his coach and athletics consultant Sylvester Nakeel for playing an integral role in his journey that has has seen him encounter numerous challenges in his pursuit of athletics and professional glory.

    “Without coach Nakeel’s mentorship, I wouldn’t have reached this level. He believed in me when others didn’t, and I’m proud to carry his lessons forward.He has been more than just a coach to me; besides progressive counselling,he has been a motivator, and a constant source of support,” the ever smiling Kidali shared, reflecting on his journey and the future ahead.

    “Getting the scholarship to Oregon was a dream come true.It will open so many doors not only for me but also my community and the rest of Kenya’s athletics fraternity. I know for sure I wouldn’t have gotten there without the foundation that my senior brother Nakeel laid for me. He taught me the value of perseverance and resilience.” he added.

    The budding athlete made first time appearance at the Olympics stage which was a great redemption for him having missed to represent Kenya at the World U-20 Championship in 2022 in Cali, Colombia despite finishing second in the trials.

    Kidali who was introduced to the game by his late father and former 400m runner Likiok in 2012 while still in primary school despite a good showing in France while competing against the heavyweights including compatriot and eventual Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi alongside Canadian marvel Marco Arop was eliminated at the repechage round finishing sixth.

    “I thank God for the opportunity to compete at the Paris Olympics. I am satisfied with what I managed to achieve considering it was my first time as an Olympian. It is something for which I worked hard for.Stepping onto that Olympic track was surreal,it was something I had dreamed of for years, and to be finally there knowing all the hard work had paid off, was an unforgettable moment.”noted Kidali who was Born in Namanga, Kajiado County.

    His coach Nakeel on the other part urged the athlete to consistently maintain high level of hardwork and discipline in realisation of his athletic goals and achievements

    “It has been an honor and a privilege to coach you and witness your journey from a promising athlete to the remarkable individual you are today. Your hard work, determination, and unbreakable spirit have set you apart and opened the doors to this exciting opportunity at Oregon University.As you head to the USA, remember that this is just the beginning of a new chapter in your story. Stay focused, remain humble, and never forget the values and discipline that have brought you this far. Challenges will come, but I know you have the strength to overcome them. Trust yourself and your abilities, just as I have always trusted in you.” read part of his statement

    Kidali’s journey to the International podium was not without its obstacles. Training in harsh conditions and balancing schoolwork with his sporting career was challenging, but he remained focused, spurred on by the belief that he could achieve greatness. His hard work has finally paid off when he earned a scholarship to the University of Oregon, one of the top institutions in the world for track and field.

    The pinnacle of his young career came when he was selected to represent Kenya at the 2024 Olympics. Despite the pressure of competing on the big stage, Kidali remained composed, delivering an impressive performance.

    USA has been a temporary home for several Kenyan athletes on the scholarship capacity. The 2022 New York City Marathon champion Sharon Lokedi graduated in 2019 after joining University of Kansas in 2015 to pursue a Bachelors Degree in Business Logistics and Supply Chain.

    Others are 1500m specialist Susan Ejore who was at both Monroe College and Oregon State University for a degree study in Psychology.The 28-year-old 3000m participant Edwin Kurgat was at the Boston University.

  • Kenya marks World Contraception Day in Narok

    Kenya marks World Contraception Day in Narok

    In an effort aimed at improving awareness of all contraceptive methods available and enable young people make informed choices on their sexual and reproductive health,Kenya marked the World Contraception Day at Ole Ntimama stadium in Narok County.

    The exercise conducted by the Division of Reproductive and Maternal Health at the Ministry of Health is a global event dedicated to promoting awareness and education about contraception, ensuring that everyone has the knowledge and resources needed to make responsible choices.

    Speaking during the event, head of the Maternal and Reproductive Health at the Ministry Dr Edward Serem noted that this annual observance plays a crucial role in promoting safe and effective contraceptive methods, reducing unintended pregnancies, and improving overall public health outcomes which the government is firmly committed towards actualisation.

    He said contraceptive information and services are fundamental to the health and human rights of all individuals further emphasising need for the entire family involvement in realisation of reproductive health care which is an essential part of health and well-being.

    “As the Ministry in line with our pursuit of achieving Universal Health Coverage we remain devoted towards doing work in reinforcement of family planning by: ensuring a steady, reliable supply of quality contraceptives; strengthening national health systems; advocating for policies supportive of family planning; and gathering data to support this work” he remarked

    “Kenya is on the right trajectory in contributing to the reduction of Maternal Mortality and severe maternal morbidity, as well as increasing the rate at which contraception needs are met by using modern methods through access to primary health care family planning services and contraceptive use equitable across all the communities in Kenya” added Dr Serem

    His sentiments were echoed by Dr Albert Ndwiga; Kenya’s Head of Family Planning.He affirmed the government has already rolled the contraceptive method available in all public health facilities across the country to offer more choices to women who may not access them due to cost or the medical challenges associated with traditional contraceptive methods.

    “There’s a population of women who would benefit more from using hormonal-based family planning, such as the Hormonal Intrauterine Devices (IUDs). The Ministry of Health continues to train healthcare workers to ensure the quality of services provided,” he stated.

    The event which aims to educate people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds about the various contraceptive methods available, their benefits, and how to access them is marked by educational initiatives, public campaigns, and community events that encourage informed decision-making regarding sexual and reproductive health.

    The Chief Officer Preventive and Promotive Health Services in Narok County Jane Kiok lauded the critical role of Community Health Promoters [CHPs] for promoting user-friendly injectable contraceptive as part of a broader reproductive health self-care initiative by the government to improve access to family planning in line with global trends towards self-care interventions.

    World Contraception Day is an international campaign that focuses on the importance of contraception and reproductive health. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about contraceptive choices and the benefits they bring to women’s health and autonomy.

    Universal access to timely contraception and family planning is a human rights imperative, without which it will be much harder to attain the sustainable development goals.

  • CS Dr Barasa calls for Greater Investment in Addressing Mental health

    CS Dr Barasa calls for Greater Investment in Addressing Mental health

    Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah M. Barasa has called for increased investment in mental health in order to address the growing mental health burden in the country.

    While emphasising the need for a multidisciplinary approach to prevention, care and treatment of mental health cases, Dr Barasa pointed out that mental health is one of the key focus areas under the government’s universal health agenda and a key priority of the Ministry of Health.

    Noting the huge gap in access to mental health treatment in the country with only 19 counties having mental health facilities, CS Barasa affirmed her commitment to initiate development of policies that will expand mental health treatment and care across the country.

    Dr Barasa made the remarks while on a tour of Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital where she assessed the level of service delivery and interacted with patients, staff and management of the facility. She later held a consultative meeting with management where discussions centred on the mental health burden in the country, operations at the facility, achievements, challenges and identified areas that they needed the support of the CS.

    The Hospitals chief executive officer Dr Julius Ogato called for an increase in the expenditure on mental health which currently stands at a paltry 0.04% of the total health budget in the country. He pointed out the lack of a functional referral system in the mental health space as a major drawback to effective management of mental health cases and advocated for affirmative action in training of specialists in mental health to increase the number of qualified professionals in the areas.

    While championing a “whole of society” approach, Dr Ogato lamented the poor health seeking behaviour among Kenyans with regard to mental health illnesses. He stressed the need for increased sensitisation for members of the public to address stigma associated with the disease and help the public appreciate the need for persons with mental illness to hospital.

    Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital is one of the six national referral hospitals under the Ministry of Health. The hospital, the largest mental health facility in the country and the East Africa region with a bed capacity of 800 patients , has a staff establishment of 350 healthcare workers.

  • NPHI hosts JEE workshop in Naivasha

    NPHI hosts JEE workshop in Naivasha

    The National Public Health Institute (NPHI) is hosting a collaborative workshop to conduct a 2nd Joint External Evaluation (JEE) aimed at assessing Kenya’s compliance with the International Health Regulations (2005).

    The three day event happening in Naivasha, Nakuru County is bringing together stakeholders from multiple sectors including representatives of various Ministries led by MoH as well as partners such as World Health Organisation [WHO].

    The acting Director General for NPHI Dr Kamene Kimenye while addressing on the Health System in Kenya underscored the government’s commitment of prevention, detection and response to public health emergencies whether occurring naturally or due to deliberate or accidental events at all levels.

    She said in line with legal notice No. 14 highlighting its functions, NPHI strives to establish mechanisms geared towards detection and building of appropriate response of outbreaks and emergencies at the national, county, sub-county and community levels.

    “The thought of having NPHI in Kenya
    begun way back in 2011 through partnership with relevant stakeholders. Since then we got involved in writing justification and concept notes until 21 January 2022 when there was a Presidential executive order published as legal notice No. 14 in the Kenya Gazette leading to its establishment. Efforts to be independent have intensified during this transition period.A lot of activities are lined up.We have applied for the Pandemic Fund which is critical investments to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response capacities” she said.

    As part of its core mandate, NPHI is expected to conduct monitoring and evaluation of projects and research to identify ways of improving the public health system including emergency response and surveillance, and to prevent public health problems from occurring thus forming the basis of an outbreak investigation.

    The ongoing exercise is a collective effort between the country’s own experts and the external evaluation team, who will review and assess various aspects of local public health security and emergency preparedness systems.

    Among other areas deliberated upon as presided over by experts present are National vaccine access and delivery, Surveillance, Immunization Priority , Health service provision, Food safety and Linking Public Health with Security.

    The JEE which was developed by WHO in collaboration with initiatives such as the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) helps countries identify the most critical gaps within their human and animal health systems in order to prioritize opportunities for enhanced preparedness and response.

    It is a multisectoral process recognizing that infectious disease threats to humans can emerge from other humans,commercial livestock, and wildlife;
    and surveillance, testing and response capabilities need to exist to respond to threats that could arise from any of these sectors.

    Just like the rest of science-based global NPHIs,Dr Kamene led Semi Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA) remains firmly focused on conducting and coordinating public health functions and programs to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats.

    It seeks to address health disparities, promote health equity, enhance access to quality healthcare, and strengthen preparedness for infectious diseases and emerging pandemics through yet to be launched Strategic Plan.

    The forum has attracted significant interest from several representatives of over 7 African countries alongside 14 partners all of whom have reiterated their commitment of examining capacities across relevant technical areas to establish a baseline assessment, enabling countries to have a greater understanding of their gaps and weaknesses in health security, so they can focus efforts to improve in these areas.

  • NPHI Board pays a courtesy call to CS Dr Barasa

    NPHI Board pays a courtesy call to CS Dr Barasa

    The Cabinet Secretary for Health Dr Deborah Mulongo Barasa on Monday met with the leadership of Kenya National Public Health Institute (NPHI) in a move geared towards solidfying Kenya’s pursuit of safeguarding lives by defending against existing and emerging public health threats.

    Dr Barasa while acknowledging the significant role played by NPHI to tackle public health challenges and strengthen disease surveillance, prevention, and response emphasised on the need to promote public health issues by consolidating the management and coordination of key activities in prevention, and early detection.

    Speaking at Afya house in a meeting that was also attended by Principal Secretary of Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni as well as Health Director General Dr Patrick Amoth, the CS reiterated her commitment of supporting the institute in realisation of its expected mandate of addressing the current and future public health emergencies such as the current MPOX scourge.

    “Health security and public health emergency preparedness is a key focus of the government following lessons learned during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The National Public Health Institute was established in 2022 to support these efforts.Met the board for a briefing on the milestones realized towards full functioning of the institute and discussed key priorities” read her tweet

    Acting Director General for NPHI Dr Maureen Kamene on her part noted that Kenya is on the right trajectory in its efforts to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats through various mechanisms including vigilant surveillance, evidence-based scientific innovations, and nurturing proficient, adaptable public health systems.

    “NPHI is important and establishment of structures and operationalizing strategies to enhance national capacities for future pandemic preparedness and response is key.The initiative will form the basis of health security in the country through effective means of coordinating a country’s public health structure and operations and improving population health besides playing a robust role in effective prevention, detection, and response to public health threats” remarked Dr Kamene

    NPHI established through a presidential executive order is a science-driven institution that lead and coordinate essential public health functions, typically operating within the government under the Ministry of Health.

    Her words were reiterated by Board Chairman Dr David Ndegwa Nyokabi who affirmed the critical role played by NPHI in health policy-setting and decision-making through generating, synthesizing, and interpreting public health data to make timely recommendations.

    The Board members present thanked the CS for extending her gesture of goodwill by meeting them and further assuring them of her unequivocal support in their quest to help analyze,plan,develop and operationalize essential public health functions by providing timely,accurate information and data analysis including on the evolving epidemiology of outbreaks and on the status of outbreak control.

    Once fully empowered with adequate
    resources and staff for its fully functioning,the institute will be an integral part in the fight against Kenya’s diverse threats to public health including infectious disease outbreaks, natural hazards, the health consequences of climate change, wars, among others.

    Among the priorities they seek adressed by the Government is the approval of organizational structure and operational instruments (PSC),transition of functions from MOH to NPHI as per the legal notice article No 25,development and approval of NPHI Strategic Plan,Bill and Policy and development of the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS).

    Since its inception to consolidate and coordinate key activities in public health, including prevention, early
    detection of public health emergencies, and events of concern,NPHI has achieved milestones such as Cabinet approval for its operationalization,establishment and publication of the first NPHI board and forging partnerships and linkages with various stakeholders among others.

    Public health emergencies erase hard-won development gains, disrupt health systems and hinder progress, significantly reducing the resilience of both health systems and communities. Globally, approximately 362 million people are directly affected by public health emergencies annually resulting from natural and human-made hazards.

    The COVID-19 pandemic for example overloaded public health systems worldwide. Countries without a centralized coordination point for scientific expertise and public health systems were less effective and efficient during a public health emergency.

  • MPs back Dr Barasa to succeed at MoH

    MPs back Dr Barasa to succeed at MoH

    A host of Members of Parliament across the political devide have backed Dr Deborah Mulongo Barasa to succeed at the Ministry of Health following her nomination by President William Ruto in the recently named new Cabinet.

    The legislators led by Mwingi West representative Charles Ngusya Nguna alias CNN said Dr Barasa’s wealth of experience will be instrumental to spearhead key reforms at Afya house towards realisation of Universal Health Coverage.

    Speaking on the sidelines of Tuesday Parliamentary proceedings,Nguna assured the nominee and entire MoH team of his maximum support should she be approved. He said Parliament is critical in supporting the health of the people they represent by reviewing legislation once implemented, debating and approving budgets, holding governments to account, and operationalizing county,national commitments.

    “Coming from the medical world she has a chance to reform the industry because she knows challenges that have been bedeviling the sector. I will support her appointment and rally for proper legislative frameworks that impact positively to the overall wellbeing of health in the country. As an arm of Government, we are expected to play a unique and powerful role in achieving health security preparedness through our various responsibilities: law-making, oversight, budgetary allocation, and citizen representation ” he affirmed.

    His comments were echoed by Khwisero legislator Christopher Aseka who lauded the head of state for picking a professional doctor for the docket that is currently in need of appropriate policies aimed at changing the health landscape in Kenya.

    “She’s a reputable doctor.Governments in overseas countries go for specialist professionals across the board.She should use her wide range of knowledge and skills to increase hospital capacities, capital,infrastructure and funding by the statutory health insurance (SHI)” noted Aseka

    While appearing last week on Thursday before Speaker Moses Wetangula led Vetting Appointments Committee,she emphasised on her passion about improving the quality of life and health outcomes for people affected by communicable and non-communicable diseases and empowering health workers and stakeholders with the knowledge and skills to prevent and control diseases.

    “My work and capacity at an international level has been policy advisory through giving strategic direction and technical mechanisms to various countries in the afro-region.I have established sustainable programs in the region, supported member countries in developing and implementing national action plans and offered technical guidance on global policies and guidelines. This will form the basis of what we seek to achieve at the Ministry” stated Dr Barasa.

    Dr Barasa who will take over from Susan Nakhumicha should her nomination sail through is a medical doctor specializing in internal medicine and infectious diseases and has over 15 years’ experience having also worked with World Health Organisation where she joined in 2020.

    The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) through its Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah endorsed her nomination and urged her to prioritize addressing internship appointment standoff as well as the matter of the Social Health Authority which was recently rejected by the court.

    As a physician, she is expected to be pivotal in the key themes including the changing healthcare workforce, digital and technological innovation, service delivery, complex conditions and changing patient demographics.

  • 22 year-old athlete from Kajiado eyeing gold prospect in Paris

    22 year-old athlete from Kajiado eyeing gold prospect in Paris

    The fast-rising star Koitatoi Kidali, from Maili Tisa Namanga, Kajiado County is seeking to defy all odds and deliver a medal for Kenya at the upcoming Paris Olympics scheduled for Fri, 26 Jul 2024 – Sun, 11 Aug 2024 in France.

    The 22 year-old is among a team of 90 athletes announced last month by Athletics Kenya to represent the country during the Summer Games after running a personal best of 1:42.66 for the 800 metres at the Kenyan Olympic trials at Nyayo national stadium .

    His coach and athletics consultant Sylvester Nakeel believes the athlete has the potential to do better in Paris and finish in medal bracket amid stiff competition from compatriots and oversees runnners.

    “Kidali is a very promising boy with immense potential to succeed at the world stage . He’s a well-rounded sportsman who possesses agility, strength, endurance,speed,flexibility and coordination.Fellow pastoralists from Kajiado will be looking upto him as he does his thing in Paris and I’m sure the outcome will be breathtakingly thrilling.In him,Kenya has a record-breaker in waiting and it’s only a matter of time” said Nakeel

    Placed at position 109 in the current world ranking of men’s 800m,Kidali will be hoping to replicate his glittering performance during the Track Night Vienna,Austria where he clocked 1:45.25 to bag the top spot in a race that attracted 32 athletes in June this year.

    The teen sensation will fly Kenyan flag in 800m alongside World Athletics Championships silver medalist Emmanuel Wanyonyi and two-time Commonwealth champion, Wycliffe Kinyamal.

    During the trials ,Wanyonyi dropped the third fastest men’s 800m performance in history to storm to the Paris 2024 Olympics in a sensational fashion while Kinyamal posted 1:42.50, the third quickest time at high altitude to book his automatic Olympic ticket.

    “It feels great to make it to the Kenyan team that will do duty during the upcoming global event.I will do my best to make both my country and fans proud. It will be a privilege participating alongside Wanyonyi and Kinyamal who are heavyweights in this race. The Kenyan spirit will headline our expectations even as each one of us strives to do well in individual capacity.We will embrace solidarity to bring the glory back home” noted Kidali.

    Kidali will be aspiring to follow in the footsteps of two-time Olympic gold medalist and 800-meter world record holder, David Rudisha who as a young boy knew most of his life would revolve around the cattle he used to herd. He was keen on following the Maasai tribesmen tradition and leading his life as a warrior in the pasture land.

    With various area championships having been held throughout June, and the national championships window having now closed, the fields for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are starting to take shape.

    Some of the sport’s biggest stars, as well as some newer names, have excelled in recent weeks one month before track and field action starts at the French capital.

    Kenya is banking on its good preparations to surpass the showing it displayed at the 32nd Olympic Games in Tokyo,Japan after being ranked the best African nation and 19th overall, with 10 medals – four gold, four silver and two bronze – all panned from athletics.

    “We will continue this walk with you until you come back with the harvest of medals and experiences from Paris when we shall monetize these with handsome rewards in place.Many people in the world know Kenya for its sportsmen and women. When our athletes take the stage at the Olympic Games, they represent the values and ideals of Olympism that thrive on solidarity, friendship and peace ” affirmed President William Ruto when he presented the national flag to Team Kenya captains, Vincent Onyala (Olympics) and Asiya Mohammed Sururu (Paralympics).

    800m will see the defending champion Emmanuel Korir miss out on his title defense following his performance at the Olympic trials. The former world champion could only afford a sixth-place finish in the semifinal, a result that denied him a slot in the final of the race.