Ministry of Health warns of donor funding drop, urges shift to local health financing
By Kiprono Keileb, March 18, 2026The Ministry of Health has raised concern over declining donor support, urging stakeholders to act quickly to protect essential services and build a stronger, self-reliant healthcare system. Many Kenyans depend on public health services for critical care, including maternal health, immunisation, and treatment for long-term illnesses.
In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga called on both government and partners to move with speed in reforming how health services are delivered and funded.
“Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga has called on health stakeholders to take decisive action in integrating health service delivery and strengthening domestic healthcare financing to build a resilient and self-sustaining health system,” the statement reads.
Speaking while addressing participants at a health summit in Mombasa on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, where leaders and experts gathered to discuss practical ways of improving service delivery across the country.
“Speaking at the ongoing 11th Health Integration Summit 2026 in Mombasa, Oluga said the case for integrated health services is already well established, urging stakeholders to move beyond discussions and address barriers slowing progress,” the statement reads.
Oluga emphasised that there is already enough evidence supporting integrated care, and what is now needed is action and clear timelines to implement the agreed strategies. He warned that shrinking donor funding should serve as a wake-up call for the country to invest more in its own healthcare systems to avoid future disruptions.
“We have heard the data, the case studies, and from all stakeholders. The evidence for integration is not in question. The Principal Secretary cautioned that declining donor support underscores the urgent need for Kenya to strengthen domestic health financing mechanisms to sustain essential services and reduce reliance on external funding,” the statement reads.
Oluga also highlighted the broader vision of building a system that works for every Kenyan, regardless of location or income level. At the same time, he reassured the public that key services are still running, even as reforms continue across the sector.
“He emphasised that the country’s goal is to build a resilient, integrated health system capable of delivering efficient, accessible and continuous care to all Kenyans. Oluga reassured the public that essential health services remain uninterrupted, including maternal care, immunisation and treatment for chronic conditions,” the statement reads.
He explained that integration would allow patients to receive multiple services at once, reducing movement between facilities and improving overall care experience.
“He noted that integration goes beyond clinical care, calling for stronger linkages between services such as tuberculosis screening, maternal health services and the management of non-communicable diseases, enabling patients to receive comprehensive care during a single visit,” Oluga stated.
Oluga added that better coordination would also reduce pressure on health workers and improve efficiency in handling patients and medical supplies.
“The PS added that integrated systems would also ease the burden on health workers by reducing duplication and improving coordination across patient records, supply chains and community referral systems,” Oluga stated.
He further encouraged citizens to stay involved and demand accountability to ensure reforms benefit everyone equally.
“He further urged communities and patient advocates to demand accountability in ongoing health reforms to ensure equitable access to care and the removal of barriers that prevent patients from receiving services,” the statement reads.