Health Ministry warns donor cuts threatening hospitals and key programmes
The Ministry of Health has warned that reduced donor funding is threatening the smooth running of hospitals and key public health programmes across the country.
During a meeting held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga said declining donor support and budget constraints are affecting referral hospitals, research institutions, and community health programmes.
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Oluga met with the Principal Secretary for the National Treasury, Chris Kiptoo, at the Treasury Building to discuss ways of securing sustainable budgetary support for critical health programmes.
The meeting focused on accelerating the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Oluga highlighted several priority areas that require urgent attention, including strengthening national referral services, ensuring a consistent supply of essential medicines and health technologies, and improving blood transfusion services.
He also called for more investment in medical research, local vaccine production, and completion of ongoing health infrastructure projects.
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The PS said stable and predictable funding is necessary to keep hospitals running smoothly and to ensure Kenyans continue receiving quality health services.
“We need adequate and predictable financing to complete ongoing health projects, maintain the supply of critical health commodities, and support operations across health facilities,” Oluga said.
He noted that some hospitals are already struggling to operate efficiently due to financial shortfalls.
Treasury and Health Ministry to work together
Oluga further pointed out that with donor funding declining, the government must strengthen its own systems to sustain essential services. He said predictable financing will ensure that critical areas such as maternal health, emergency care, and disease control continue to receive the support they need.
Both Oluga and Kiptoo reaffirmed their commitment to aligning financial planning with the country’s health priorities.
They agreed to work closely to improve health financing reforms, strengthen accountability, and invest in digital transformation and the health workforce.
The goal, they said, is to build a stronger and more efficient healthcare system that protects citizens from high medical costs and delivers on the promise of Universal Health Coverage.
Oluga was accompanied by Chief Executive Officers and Heads of Departments from the State Department for Medical Services, reflecting the Ministry’s collective commitment to improving health financing.
