Kenya’s Health Cabinet Secretary, Deborah Barasa, has called for urgent measures to strengthen East Africa’s health systems following the US government’s decision to freeze funding for HIV, Malaria, and TB programs under USAID.
Speaking at the East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit in Mombasa, Barasa emphasized the need for self-reliance to withstand external shocks.
She urged stakeholders to focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, regional cooperation, and local vaccine production.
“We must build resilient health systems capable of addressing emerging and re-emerging health threats,” she stated.
The CS also tasked health agencies with assessing the financial and human resource impact of the US aid withdrawal and developing a strategy to mitigate its effects.

“The summit, running until January 30, focuses on building sustainable health preparedness.
Discussions highlight the private se” tor’s role in supporting public health agencies, emergency preparedness, and policy alignment.
Safaricom’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Cynthia Kropac, emphasized the importance of resilience and innovation in tackling health crises.
Kropac noted that past outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19 taught critical lessons in preparedness, scientific innovation, and adaptability.
She stressed that investing in public health infrastructure is key to preventing future crises.
Safaricom is currently digitizing hospital management systems across Kenya to enhance healthcare efficiency.
Barasa concluded by reiterating that health security depends on collaboration between governments, the private sector, and communities.
She emphasized that a well-trained healthcare workforce and proactive investment in public health systems are essential to mitigating future health emergencies.
Government Assures Enough ARVs Amid Donald Trump’s Order To Halt Funding
Email your news TIPS to Editor@NairobiNews.co.ke