Guest Speaker
H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto
President of the Republic of Kenya
His Excellency Dr William Samoei Ruto, The President of the Republic Of Kenya and Commander In Chief of The Defence Forces. His Excellency Dr Ruto was sworn in on September 13, 2022, after winning the Presidential election. He was elected on August 9, 2022 on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, a principal party, in the Kenya Kwanza Alliance. Before ascending to be President, Dr Ruto served as the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya from April 3, 2013 to September 12, 2022.
President William Ruto's administration has made significant strides in enhancing the healthcare sector in Kenya. His commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the establishment of the Social Health Authority (SHA) have been pivotal in transforming the healthcare landscape. The introduction of the Primary Healthcare Act, Digital Health Act, Social Health Insurance Act, and Facility Improvement Financing Act has provided a legal framework for the new system, ensuring that healthcare services are accessible to all Kenyans.
Ruto's administration has also focused on improving the human resources in the healthcare sector, with the establishment of new Knowledge Management Centers (KMTCs) and the recruitment of additional health workers. This effort aims to address the persistent human resource challenges that hinder the realization of UHC.
The Kenya-United Kingdom Health Alliance (KUKHA) is another initiative that reflects President Ruto's commitment to international collaboration in healthcare. KUKHA aims to improve healthcare in Kenya through joint research, workforce training, and education of healthcare professionals, with an initial focus on cancer care.
President Ruto's leadership and the government's initiatives have not only improved healthcare access but also fostered a collaborative environment for healthcare professionals, ensuring that the medical fraternity and KUKHA work together to address Kenya's healthcare needs.