PS Ouma Oluga Urges Dentists To Address Gaps In Access And Trust In Oral Healthcare
Health Updated: 30 January 2026 10:41 EAT
Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, preside over the official launch of the KDA 2026–2030 Strategic Plan in Nairobi
Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga has called on the Kenya Dental Association (KDA) to take decisive action in addressing long-standing gaps in access, equity and public trust within the country’s oral healthcare system.
Speaking in Nairobi during the launch of the KDA 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, Dr. Oluga said it was unacceptable that millions of Kenyans still lack access to basic dental services despite the association’s more than 60-year history.
The PS noted that disparities remain pronounced between urban and rural areas, with underserved communities bearing the brunt of limited infrastructure, workforce shortages and high out-of-pocket costs for dental care.
He also raised concerns over recent preventable incidents in dental practice, saying they had eroded public confidence and highlighted the need for stronger accountability and adherence to professional standards.
Dr. Oluga challenged KDA to go beyond professional advocacy and play a more active role as a guardian of public interest, prioritising patient safety and quality of care.
He further urged the association to align its strategies with the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda and reforms under the Social Health Authority to ensure oral health is fully integrated into primary healthcare.
According to the PS, expanding dental services within public health facilities and improving financing mechanisms would be key to achieving equitable access nationwide.
The newly launched strategic plan is expected to guide the dental sector’s policy direction, professional development and service delivery efforts through 2030, as stakeholders work to improve oral health outcomes and restore public trust.
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FELIX MAKONA
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