New Health CS Pledges to Strengthen KEMRI to Boost Delivery of UHC.

The newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Mulongo, has committed to bolstering support for the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) to leverage its extensive scientific expertise and diagnostics capabilities in enhancing the health and quality of life of Kenyans.

During a courtesy call by KEMRI’s top leadership at Afya House on Thursday, August 15, 2024, Dr. Mulongo emphasized the vital role that KEMRI has continued to play in the government’s health transformation agenda, particularly in the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“KEMRI is a globally recognized brand and its impact is felt even by neighbouring countries. We are keen to see its role in the implementation of UHC and its contribution to achieving better health outcomes for our people,” Dr. Mulongo stated.

The CS acknowledged KEMRI’s critical human and infrastructural resources, which the country has relied on during public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Mpox outbreak. “I am aware of these capabilities, which needs to be strengthened for preparedness and to continue building resilience throughout our health system,” she remarked.

The meeting was attended by KEMRI Board Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ali, Ag. Director General Prof. Elijah Songok, Ag. Director of Research and Development Prof. Nelly Mugo, Ag. Director of Scientific Programs, Partnerships, and Grants Management Dr. Maricianah Onono, and Ag. Deputy Director of Corporate Communications Mr. James Wodera. The meeting further provided an opportunity for KEMRI’s leadership to brief the CS on the Institute’s current and future research activities. They highlighted the significant impact KEMRI’s work has had over years both in Kenya and globally, as well as the potential for producing cost-effective, homegrown diagnostic kits that could benefit all Kenyans.

The Chairman, Board Dr. Abdullahi on behalf of KEMRI team congratulated Dr. Mulongo on her appointment as CS, Health, with KEMRI leadership expressing optimism that her international health sector experience would greatly benefit the Institute and the country. “We are particularly excited because you have worked on the international stage and understand the critical role of partnerships and collaborations. As an Institute that works closely with both local and international partners, we will greatly value your leadership and wisdom in this area,” said Dr. Abdullahi.

Prof. Songok echoed these sentiments, stating, “At KEMRI, we are committed to developing the best health policies to improve health outcomes not only for Kenyans but for all of humanity. This purpose is shared by our partners and collaborators; with whom we have worked with for decades.”

In response, Dr. Mulongo pledged her unwavering support in creating an environment that will ensure KEMRI’s mission continues to be achieved. “KEMRI is a strategic asset not only to the Ministry of Health, but to the country. We will fully support its efforts to fulfill its mandate and enhance its reputation by raising awareness of its critical role in safeguarding public health. I am confident that we can leverage KEMRI’s expertise on our path to realizing UHC,” she said.

To ensure seamless operations and service delivery within her Ministry, Dr. Mulongo promised to convene a meeting with all state agencies and departments under her docket to agree on strategies for quickly improving health outcomes for the benefit of all Kenyans.