Cabinet approves sweeping reforms in health, energy, and infrastructure
National
By
Mate Tongola
| Jul 29, 2025
President William Ruto on Tuesday chaired a Cabinet meeting at State House, Nairobi, which endorsed key policy reforms across health, infrastructure, energy, youth empowerment, and conservation.
A major highlight was the approval of the Quality Healthcare and Patient Safety Bill, 2025, aimed at curbing fraud and impunity in the health sector.
"The Bill proposes the creation of a new authority to enforce standards, mandate strict licensing of facilities, and uphold patient rights to ensure safer, accountable care," the dispatch from the Cabinet read in part.
The Cabinet also backed the findings of the Presidential Task Force on Religious Organisations, recommending self-regulation and a legal framework to govern religious groups following the Shakahola tragedy.
Key proposals include the creation of a Religious Affairs Commission and stricter leadership standards.
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On infrastructure, the Cabinet approved enhanced measures to fast-track roadworks by extending the Road Maintenance Levy Fund securitisation model.
"This will see 80 percent of verified contractor claims paid up from 40 percent, revive 393 stalled projects, and improve cash flow in the sector," the brief highlighted.
In a move to boost private sector participation, the Cabinet endorsed the reinstatement of the Kenya Pipeline Company into the privatisation programme.
The partial divestiture is expected to unlock KPC’s full market potential and bring in capital and expertise to modernise operations.
To expand electricity access, the Cabinet approved Phase III of the Last Mile Connectivity Project, targeting 180,500 new connections.
"The programme, funded by AfDB and Canada-AfDB Climate Fund, prioritises underserved counties and aims to power homes, clinics, schools, and MSMEs," it added.
Additionally, the Olkaria VII Geothermal Project was greenlit. The 80.3MW plant, set for completion in 2027, will reinforce Kenya’s energy security amid growing power demand and the shift toward electric vehicles.
Cabinet also endorsed the NYOTA Project, a flagship youth initiative launching in August 2025.
Jointly implemented by the government and World Bank, it targets over 820,000 unemployed youth with training, certification, and job placements.
In conservation, the Cabinet ratified the transfer of Amboseli National Park to Kajiado County in line with a presidential directive.
Kenya Wildlife Service will retain conservation oversight, while the county takes over park operations in a co-management model.
The Power of Mercy Bill, 2025, was approved to reform presidential pardons, enabling structured early release of rehabilitated inmates and easing prison congestion.
Finally, the Cabinet was briefed on preparations for CHAN 2024, the first major continental tournament hosted by Kenya in over 40 years.
Certified venues and security measures are in place, and the Harambee Stars are in full training ahead of the event.