Kenya Launches National Surgical Services Strategic Plan to Improve Healthcare

The Ministry of Health has launched the first National Surgical Services Strategic Plan (2026-2031) to improve surgical, obstetric, and anesthesia services across all levels of care.

This strategic plan is a significant milestone in strengthening Kenya’s health system, with a focus on expanding access to safe and affordable surgical care.

Speaking at the Surgical Society of Kenya Annual Scientific Conference, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, emphasized that the plan provides a bold and costed roadmap aligned with Universal Health Coverage. The goal is to reduce preventable deaths and improve outcomes, particularly in underserved areas.

Dr. Oluga highlighted that surgical care is a critical component of quality healthcare. Key reform enablers include health financing through the Social Health Authority, commodity security, digitalization, and health workforce development. With nearly 29 million Kenyans registered under the Social Health Authority, patients will have better access to care and financial protection.

The National Surgical Services Strategic Plan outlines targeted actions to:

Build surgical workforce capacity

Expand infrastructure

Strengthen referral systems

Integrate surgical indicators into health information systems

Enhance coordination across national and county governments, professional bodies, private sector, and partners

Dr. Oluga also urged healthcare professionals to adopt digital innovation to improve patient care and data systems. The launch of the strategy was attended by stakeholders, including the President of the Surgical Society of Kenya, Prof. Odula, and representatives from national and county governments.

This strategic plan is expected to significantly improve surgical services in Kenya, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of healthcare in the country.