The ministry of health has pledged to partner with the private sector to accelerate ongoing reforms within the health sector.

Speaking at a Nairobi hotel during a meeting with members of the Kenya National chamber of commerce and industry (KNCCI), health CS Mutahi Kagwe said collaborations and partnerships are critical tools for transformation as they make it possible to implement critical development projects.

“Mnajua waswahili husema,“Kidole kimoja hakivunji chawa.” Through collaboration, we have seen the current government implement mega projects in different sectors of the economy,” Kagwe submitted.

He said the covid-19 pandemic saw the ministry of health work with various players in the private sector in fighting the pandemic as well as attaining the Universal Health Coverage.

Citing a programme implemented by the ministry of health in partnership with KNCCI between 2020 and 2021 to support the development and manufacturing of 7.5 Million PPEs as an incentive to promote local manufacturers and producers of fabric, Kagwe said the country has achieved spectacular results which is not only encouraging but also a stamp of approval for collaboration as a tool for economic transformation.

He observed that the demand for quality health care services has led to the growth of business services in the health sector adding that there are numerous opportunities to scale up innovative approaches and new technologies to rapidly accelerate progress toward UHC. This even as he urged the private sector to explore available opportunities in the sector.

“I am fond of encouraging people to think globally. As we position ourselves to take up the opportunities available locally, we must also examine the regional and international environment to see how we can tap into the global market,” noted the health CS.

Speaking during the forum, Chamber president Richard Ngatia lauded the government for its support during the pandemic saying it helped re-engineer local businesses. He said the chamber remains ready to partner with the ministry of health in its efforts to improve the country’s health outcomes.