NAIROBI, May 1 (NNN-KBC) — Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, held a bilateral meeting with the Belgian Ambassador to Kenya, Peter Maddens, to assess progress on two major healthcare projects supported by the Belgian Government.
Duale expressed appreciation for Belgium’s sustained partnership in strengthening Kenya’s healthcare systems, particularly through the Medical Waste Microwave Project. This initiative, designed to improve medical waste management and mitigate infection risks and environmental hazards, successfully completed its first phase in June 2021.
The initial phase benefited key institutions including Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and regional hospitals in Kakamega, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nakuru, Embu, Nyeri, Machakos, and Kisii. Preparations for Phase 2 are currently underway and will see the project expanded to an additional 15 counties.
The meeting also focused on finalizing operational details of the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)-Unizima Bio-Manufacturing Training Hub, a critical component of Kenya’s efforts to build local capacity in biopharmaceutical production. Next steps include signing a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), securing further financing, accelerating staff training placements in Belgium, and advancing local infrastructure development.
Both projects align with Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda by enhancing environmental health standards and boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities.
CS Duale was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, and Acting KEMRI CEO, Prof. Elijah Martim. — NNN-KBC
