The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Ministry of Health have joined forces in a strategic partnership aimed at addressing the growing challenge of Noncommunicable Diseases in the region.
Led by Mrs Hendrina C. Doroba, Country Manager of the Education and Skills Development Division at ADB, this collaboration focuses on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and services to promote a healthier future.
During a consultative meeting held on Monday, August 7, 2023, with the Principal Secretary, of the State Department for Medical Services, Harry Kimtai, they discussed crucial projects to be incorporated into the Country Strategic Plan.
One of the key initiatives includes the construction of a Level 6 facility in Londiani, which will serve as a trauma centre to meet the urgent healthcare needs resulting from increasing road accidents in the region.
Additionally, a proposed Level 6 centre of excellence in Bungoma County aims to address Sickle Cell Disease comprehensively and also function as a regional blood centre, enhancing blood transfusion services.
This collaborative effort represents a significant stride towards achieving Universal Health Coverage, as outlined in the Kenya Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—comprising cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases and cancer—are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Data from the Ministry of Health indicate that non-communicable diseases were responsible for 39% of Kenyan deaths in 2020, up from 27% in 2014.
Further, it is documented that more than half of these diseases are occurring in people aged 40 years or less.
Risk factors include unhealthy diets, tobacco consumption and lack of exercise.
