Kenya has pledged its full commitment to the IGAD Pandemic Preparedness and Response Initiative, underscoring the country’s leadership in bolstering regional health security.
Speaking at the official launch of the initiative during the IGAD regional meeting in Uganda, Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni stressed that pandemics pose a shared threat across borders, necessitating collective action and solidarity.
“Kenya is committed to implementing the provisions of the communiqué on enhancing pandemic preparedness and response using a One Health approach in the region. Together, we can turn the tide against pandemics and build a healthier, more resilient IGAD region,” she stated.
The PS highlighted Kenya’s long-standing focus on preparedness and communicable disease control, citing reforms in the health sector, significant investment in primary healthcare, and robust surveillance systems at both national and county levels. She pointed out that lessons from past health emergencies have reinforced the importance of proactive preparation, early detection, and swift regional collaboration.
Muthoni explained that the new initiative, known as the PREPARE project, aligns seamlessly with Kenya’s ongoing reforms and is integrated into the upcoming second edition of the National Action Plan for Health Security.
She noted that pandemic preparedness is not solely a government responsibility but requires collaboration with communities, the private sector, civil society, and international partners.
“Only through our united efforts can we build a resilient region capable of withstanding future health crises,” she said.
The PS also highlighted the significance of cross-border cooperation, particularly along Kenya’s northern and western corridors, where shared ecosystems, trade, and migration flows demand harmonized approaches. She stated that the initiative will enhance joint surveillance, harmonized travel and trade guidance, synchronized contingency planning, and the use of regional risk assessment tools to ensure a coordinated response.
Muthoni thanked IGAD partners, development agencies, and organizations for their support, reiterating that Kenya remains committed to transparency, accountability, and partnership. She added that Kenya’s health preparedness strategy, anchored in the Kenya Health Sector Strategic Plan, the Constitution, and the Bottom-up Transformation Agenda, will be further strengthened through regional norms and standards.
