Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has announced plans to make kidney transplant services more accessible and affordable in the country through strategic partnerships with leading hospitals.

While addressing the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health during discussions on the 2025-2026 budget estimates, CS Duale revealed that the Ministry of Health will soon sign Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Aga Khan University Hospital and other select facilities. These agreements will enable the provision of kidney transplant services at Social Health Authority (SHA) rates.

The move comes as part of broader reforms under the SHA framework, aimed at strengthening Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and addressing the increasing burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Kenya.

Duale also highlighted the upcoming launch of the East Africa Kidney Institute (EAKI) in July 2025. Equipped with over 44 dialysis machines, the facility is set to become a regional hub for renal care, research, and training, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s healthcare development.

In addressing workforce quality, Hon. Duale emphasized the ongoing reinspection of all health training institutions by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to enforce compliance with infrastructure and capacity standards.

He stressed that postgraduate training will be aligned with national needs and available resources, ensuring equity in human capital development. Duale reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and prioritization of Kenya’s health needs, pledging to fast-track quality healthcare provision through any budget allocated by Parliament.

He was accompanied by Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, Director General Dr. Patrick Amoth, senior Ministry officials, and heads of health agencies.