PS Mary Muthoni Opens Forum on Community Health Financing
Health Updated: 20 January 2026 19:16 EAT
Photo Courtesy: Ministry of Health on X
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has officially opened a two-day meeting of the Primary Health Care Financing Technical Working Group, aimed at securing sustainable funding for services that reach communities where they live.
The forum brings together government officials, health sector stakeholders, and development partners to explore financing strategies that strengthen Kenya’s primary health care system. Discussions focus on innovative models to expand funding for community-based health services and reduce reliance on out-of-pocket payments.
Speaking at the opening, PS Muthoni emphasized the importance of reliable and equitable financing for primary health care as a cornerstone of the country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
The meeting also aligns with ongoing reforms under the Social Health Authority (SHA), which seeks to improve allocation of funds to health facilities based on patient needs and service delivery.
Stakeholders will examine financing mechanisms that ensure frontline services are adequately supported, including models that channel resources directly to counties and community health programs.
The two-day technical session aims to produce actionable recommendations for government and partners, ensuring long-term sustainability of primary health care financing.
PS Muthoni noted that strengthening primary health care is critical for improving access to essential services, particularly for populations in remote and underserved areas.
The working group will review current funding gaps and explore partnerships that can enhance financial support for preventive and curative health services.
Officials also highlighted the need for data-driven decision-making, with funding allocation linked to population health needs and service utilization.
Community-based health programs were a major focus, as these initiatives form the first point of contact for many Kenyans seeking health care.
The Ministry of Health plans to use insights from the meeting to guide policy adjustments and ensure that primary health care financing contributes to national health priorities.
The forum underscores Kenya’s commitment to building a resilient and well-funded primary health care system, improving health outcomes and advancing progress toward Universal Health Coverage.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD