Kenya Pursues UK Collaboration for Universal Healthcare

Kenya and the United Kingdom convened a healthcare roundtable in Nairobi on January 22, 2026, to explore partnership opportunities and bolster Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda. The event, themed “Healthcare as a Strategic Growth Sector: UK–Kenya Partnerships for Delivery, Innovation & Investment,” aimed to unlock investment opportunities within the Kenyan health sector.

Healthcare as a Strategic Growth Sector

Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga engaged stakeholders at the UK–Kenya Business Forum Healthcare Roundtable. Discussions focused on positioning healthcare as a strategic growth sector and strengthening bilateral partnerships to support Kenya’s UHC agenda. The forum brought together government officials, UK representatives, development partners, investors, and private sector players for policy and industry dialogue.

Government Commitment to Healthcare

Dr. Oluga stated the government’s commitment to positioning healthcare as a driver of economic growth and innovation. He cited ongoing health financing reforms, including the transition to Social Health Insurance, as key initiatives. He also emphasized the role of blended finance and public–private partnerships in mobilizing sustainable capital for the sector.

Investment Opportunities for UK Firms

The Principal Secretary highlighted opportunities for UK firms across various areas, including healthcare supply chains, logistics, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, infrastructure development, and digital health.

Digitization and Workforce Development

Dr. Oluga underscored the importance of healthcare digitization under the Digital Health Strategy. He also noted the need for workforce development through skills training and specialist capacity building.

Commitment to a Modern Health System

The roundtable concluded with a shared commitment between Kenya and the United Kingdom to advance a modern, inclusive, and digitally enabled health system. The goal is to improve health outcomes and position Kenya as a regional healthcare and manufacturing hub.