By Violet Auma
The Health Cabinet Secretary, Debora Barasa, has expressed concern about the severe implications of recent executive orders by the U.S. government, including the decision to pull out of the World Health Organization (WHO). She emphasized the need for the Kenyan government to develop a robust health financing strategy to ensure self-reliance, particularly in light of shifting political landscapes where successive presidents may introduce varying agendas.
“When we are overly dependent on external partners, we face significant challenges when their priorities shift,” Barasa stated. “This is why a sustainable health financing model is crucial. We are optimistic about the rollout and implementation of Taifa Care and the Social Health Authority, which aim to enhance sustainability.”
Barasa highlighted the urgency of self-sufficiency, noting that dependency on external donors could lead to critical shortages in health services. “It’s imperative for Kenyans to register and support the success of Taifa Care. Otherwise, in the future, donor withdrawal could leave us without medication and essential health services, forcing people into dire situations,” she said.
The Health Cabinet Secretary revealed plans for discussions with the African Union and the East African Community on health financing in Africa. “We will address how to engage key donor countries that have supported us, while also preparing for the potential impacts of drastic funding withdrawals, such as increased infections, disease outbreaks, and fatalities,” she added. Measures such as improved surveillance, early detection, training, and response capacity have already been put in place to mitigate these risks.
Barasa further emphasized that unstable funding could have far-reaching implications, including economic and social disruptions, and called on the U.S. government to reconsider its decision. “We request engagement and dialogue to ensure sustainable support for African countries, particularly Kenya, to control infectious diseases before they escalate,” she said.
Penina Mukabane, the acting County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health in Kakamega, noted that the U.S. executive orders under President Donald Trump are already having tangible effects. “In our recent meetings with USAID’s UBJ project, we were informed of significant cuts in benefits. For example, they are no longer covering transportation and per diems for our staff attending meetings. This means the county government must allocate additional resources to sustain our programs,” Mukabane explained.
Mukabane also shared updates on national government plans to support counties through the National Equipment Service Program. “We’re mapping our needs for radiology, ultrasound, CT scans, and theater equipment so that procurement can be prioritized,” she said.
In light of these developments, both national and county governments are exploring ways to strengthen health systems, ensuring continuity of care despite reduced external support.
