Health ministry launches institute to boost research and emergency response

The Ministry of Health has unveiled the Kenya National Public Health Institute (KNPHI) to bolster Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through preventive and promotive healthcare and enhance national health security.

Established under Legal Notice No. 14 of 2022, KNPHI will serve as the country’s central hub for disease surveillance, health research, policy coordination, and emergency response.

The institute is expected to streamline public health functions, eliminate duplication, and boost Kenya’s capacity to detect and respond to health threats.

Speaking at the launch, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale underscored the need for resilient institutions capable of responding swiftly to public health challenges. He thanked the World Bank, Africa CDC, Amref Health Africa, and the International Association of National Public Health Institutes (IANPHI) for their technical and financial support in operationalising KNPHI.

Duale also called on the Public Service Commission to fast-track approval of human resource instruments to enable the institute’s full functionality.

World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative Dr Abdourahmane Diallo reaffirmed WHO’s support in helping Kenya establish a strong, independent, and globally connected public health body aligned with national priorities.

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