Former Health CS Susan Nakhumicha Hands Over to Successor, Highlighting Key Reforms

By Robert Mutasi 

Former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha officially handed over the health docket to her successor, Deborah Mulongo on Thursday, August 29, 2024, marking the end of her tenure with a strong sense of accomplishment.

Nakhumicha is leaving the Ministry of Health (MoH) after leading several reforms aimed at strengthening the health sector in Kenya.

Reflecting on her time in office, Nakhumicha expressed her pride in the programs she implemented, especially the establishment of Community Health Promoters (CHPs). 

"We did a great job. I'm leaving with my head held high. When I leave the MoH, I'm happy with the 107,000 trained and equipped CHPs," she said. 

This plan, which aims to strengthen health services in the community, is seen as an important step in improving the access and delivery of health services throughout the country.

Nakhumicha also highlighted the reforms he brought to the country's Medicines Supply Authority (KEMSA), an organization that had faced challenges and disputes in recent years. 

"When we entered, there was a dark cloud hanging over KEMSA, but I am leaving knowing that we have been able to do some work. We installed a new board and governance structure. We were able to increase the availability of shares," she noted.

Under her leadership, KEMSA saw reforms aimed at restoring its credibility and ensuring a stable supply of medical needs to health facilities across the country.

Her successor, Deborah Mulongo, acknowledged the progress achieved by Nakhumicha but also explained the challenges facing the ministry. 

"I can't wait to see Kenyans served under the Community Health Assurance (SHA) program. Our biggest challenge was resources; we had plans, but we didn't have enough resources to fully implement them," Mulongo said. 

The SHA program, which aims to provide universal health care, remains an important objective for the ministry.

When Mulongo takes the helm, she inherits a ministry that has made progress under Nakhumicha's leadership but still faces major obstacles, especially in funding and resource allocation. 

The SHA initiative, which aims to provide affordable health services to all Kenyans, will be the first priority for the new CS, who has already identified resource constraints as a major challenge.

The changes in the Ministry of Health mark a new chapter in Kenya's ongoing efforts to reform and improve its health care system.