Grace Ikahu Muchangi

Strengthening Public Health Systems for Improved Health Outcomes

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening pharmaceutical regulation, advancing local manufacturing and promoting regulatory convergence across Africa.

Speaking on behalf of Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, during the closing of the 6th PharmaReg AfriSummit 2026 in Nairobi, Deputy Director-Medical Services,Dr Grace Ikahu said strong regulatory systems are critical to ensuring access to safe, effective and quality-assured medical products.

The PS, highlighted the need to strengthen regulatory harmonisation, post-market surveillance, digital transformation and measures to combat substandard and falsified medical products.

The Ministry will continue strengthening the Pharmacy and Poisons Board towards higher levels of regulatory maturity and implementing the Health Products and Technologies Local Manufacturing Strategy 2026–2030, while working with African partners through the African Medicines Agency and other regional platforms to advance regulatory convergence, information sharing and reliance.

[Mary Muthoni Muriuki, CBS, HSC @psmuthoni]

Strong coordination between the National and County Governments is essential for effective service delivery at the community level. While the national government provides policy direction and standards, counties drive implementation on the ground.

In preparation for the activation of the Epuka Uchafu, Afya Nyumbani initiative in Bomet County, a Ministry of Health delegation led by Dr. Grace Ikahu paid a courtesy call to the Governor, Prof. Hillary Barchok.

The meeting focused on promoting preventive healthcare through improved household hygiene and sanitation, as well as strengthening collaboration to enhance community mobilization, public health awareness, and sustainable waste management efforts across the county.

Also present was Deputy County Commissioner James Ringera, who represented the Bomet County Commissioner.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

The Ministry of Health, through the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, has officially activated the Epuka Uchafu, Afya Nyumbani initiative in Kericho County, marking the 13th county to roll out the nationwide programme.

The activation was led by Dr Grace Ikahu, who heads the initiative at the Ministry. She emphasised the critical role of preventive health practices at the household level, noting that clean and safe home environments are essential in reducing preventable diseases.

Originally launched in West Pokot County in 2024 by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, the initiative promotes proper hygiene, safe water handling, effective waste management and improved sanitation as part of Kenya’s broader efforts to strengthen primary healthcare and disease prevention.

[Grace Ikahu Muchangi @GraceMuchangi]

This is a great initiative for cleaner households, healthier environments and wealthier communities

[State Department for Public Health @PublicHealthMoH]

Poor hygiene & unsafe sanitation threaten Kenya’s prosperity. At #DevCon2025, the @PublicHealthMoH rallied leaders, partners & communities for #EpukaUchafu to drive hygiene, sanitation & safe water. Let’s Clean Up Kenya one household at a time!
https://t.co/dOyij4YT9O

[Grace Ikahu Muchangi @GraceMuchangi]

Congratulations @martinmuchangi on your well deserved appointment. This is a true recognition of your expertise and authority in the climate change and health space. Looking forward to using this platform to elevate the African voice on the global stage.

[Amref Health Africa in Kenya @Amref_Kenya]

📢 We proudly celebrate the appointment of @martinmuchangi Director of Public Health, Environment & Research at @Amref_Kenya, as Coordinating Lead Author for the Health and Well-being chapter in the IPCC’s 7th Assessment Report (AR7) @UNEP @WMO

This marks a major step in elevating African expertise within the world’s most influential climate science body. As climate impacts intensify, affecting disease patterns, health systems, and vulnerable populations, Africa’s voice is essential in defining adaptation strategies that work.

The future of resilience must be equitable, and informed by those on the frontlines.
#Amref4ClimateHealth #ClimateResilience

[Grace Ikahu Muchangi @GraceMuchangi]

Forging ahead in the fight against Mpox

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐃 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐩𝐨𝐱 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬

Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, CBS, today met with a delegation from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to discuss cross-border collaboration in strengthening health emergency preparedness and response for Mpox.

The meeting highlighted the importance of advancing a multi-sectoral One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health systems to effectively address emerging health threats.

PS Mary Muthoni reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to operationalizing the One Health framework as a key strategy for enhancing both national and regional health security.

The IGAD delegation was led by Mr. Mubarak Mabuyu, Director for Health and Social Development, and Dr. Fatuma Adan, IGAD Head of Mission to Kenya.

[Mary Muthoni Muriuki, CBS, HSC @psmuthoni]

Strengthening Border Surveillance Against Mpox, Marburg & Ebola

Today, together with WHO Country Representative Dr. Abdiramane Diallo and IOM Chief Migration Officer Basnet Mukunda we visited JKIA to engage the Border Management Committee on strengthening disease surveillance and response.

Amid the Mpox outbreak in Kenya and ongoing Marburg and Ebola threats in the region, enhanced border screening, rapid response teams, and public awareness are crucial to preventing disease importation and safeguarding public health.

To bolster surveillance, Terminal 1A, Gate 16 has been designated as the sole entry point for travelers from Uganda and Tanzania, where Marburg and Ebola cases have been reported. We are deploying a multi-agency approach to implement the Kenya Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan across all Points of Entry.

Kenya remains steadfast in protecting public health through proactive surveillance and emergency preparedness. By working closely with global partners, we are enhancing our capacity to detect and respond to disease threats at our borders.

We acknowledge the support from WHO, IOM and other partners in strengthening emergency response efforts, ensuring the country is well-prepared to address emerging health threats in the region.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

The Ministry of Health is ramping up efforts to tackle the Mpox outbreak and address the potential risk of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD). Since the initial cases of Mpox were reported in July 2024, 36 confirmed cases have been recorded, with the highest numbers in Nakuru, Mombasa, and Busia.

At a Media Sensitization Meeting held on January 23, 2025, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms. Mary Muthoni Muriuki, announced the launch of a targeted vaccination campaign aimed at high-risk groups, including healthcare workers and individuals who have had close contact with confirmed cases. Public awareness campaigns are also being launched to counter misinformation and provide the public with accurate information.

Ms. Muthoni emphasized the importance of collaboration to reduce vaccine hesitancy, stating, “Accurate, reliable information about the Mpox vaccine must reach all communities, particularly those most at risk.”

In addition, the Ministry is enhancing surveillance, distributing personal protective equipment (PPE), and providing training for healthcare workers to improve the response and management of the virus. In light of the Marburg threat posed by the outbreak in Tanzania’s Kagera region, Kenya has heightened surveillance at border points. “While we remain vigilant in the fight against Mpox, we are also prepared for the possibility of a Marburg outbreak,” Ms. Muthoni added.

The Ministry is working closely with international health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to ensure a swift and coordinated response to both Mpox and Marburg. Ms. Muthoni reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening health systems and ensuring the country is well-prepared for emerging health risks.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

The Ministry of Health is following up on reports of alleged outbreaks of a flu-like illness caused by the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). We wish to assure the general public that HMPV is not a new virus, and has been documented as a circulating pathogen contributing to respiratory illnesses in Kenya.

The national public health surveillance system is on high alert, and we are happy to confirm that currently, there is no reported increase in the expected number of patients presenting with respiratory symptoms in our health facilities.

The Ministry remains committed to safeguarding the health and safety of all Kenyans. We request members of the public to remain vigilant, continue observing public health practices such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette as promoted through the Epuka Uchafu Afya Nyumbani initiative.

Any unusual cases of severe respiratory illness are advised to seek medical assistance from the nearest health facility as soon as possible. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. For inquiries, please call 719.

[Grace Ikahu Muchangi @GraceMuchangi]

@psmuthoni Pole sana Madam PS. May God grant your beloved dad eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

This week, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), successfully held a key training session on climate change and health. The event brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, public environmental health specialists, and scientists from across the country.

During the closing remarks, Dr. Grace Muchangi, Acting Director of Public Health and Sanitation, highlighted the training's objective: to build a pool of experts capable of disseminating knowledge on the intersection of climate change and health, as outlined in Kenya’s Climate Change and Health Strategy 2024-2029.

The main goal was to equip Trainer of Trainers (TOTs) with the necessary skills to guide stakeholders in assessing climate risks, utilizing vulnerability and adaptation tools, and developing the Health National Adaptation Plan.

Participants also explored environmentally sustainable healthcare tools tailored to Kenya’s specific needs, with a strong emphasis on promoting collaboration in the creation of greening healthcare guidelines.

This initiative marks another step in Kenya’s efforts to build a climate-resilient health system, ensuring that healthcare professionals are prepared to address the growing health risks associated with climate change.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

Stay safe from Mpox with these key precautions

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐌𝐩𝐨𝐱 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢���𝐬

Kenya is ramping up its preparedness and response to Mpox, with the Director General of Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, emphasizing the urgency of decisive action and robust partnerships.

Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Amoth highlighted the critical importance of early intervention to prevent a wider outbreak. Although only one confirmed case has been reported in the country, the rise in cases across other parts of Africa has spurred calls for increased vigilance.

During a stakeholder meeting held today, the focus was on enhancing Kenya's national response strategy to Mpox. Dr. Amoth outlined key measures, including rapid laboratory testing, community engagement, infection prevention control, and comprehensive case management. He also underscored the importance of monitoring points of entry to control any potential spread of the disease.

Dr. Amoth urged all partners to collaborate in strengthening Kenya's preparedness, stressing that proactive measures are essential for safeguarding public health and ensuring economic stability. “Taking action now is essential to protect our population and prevent a potential outbreak,” he stated.

Also present at the meeting were Dr. Sultan Matendechero, who called for proper coordination and communication, and Dr. Grace Ikahu, Director of Public Health, among other key stakeholders.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

The Ministry of Health is implementing comprehensive measures to prevent the spread of Mpox. We urge everyone to stay vigilant, and practice good hygiene. If you experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and rash, seek medical attention immediately.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

Be Aware of the Key Symptoms of Mpox to Protect Yourself and Others.

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

Stay Protected from Mpox
#MpoxAwareness

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

The Ministry of Health today inaugurated the Incident Management System (IMS) team for Mpox Response. Dr. Sultan Matendechero, Acting Deputy Director General for Health, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, will lead efforts in the coordination of the IMS. During the opening, Dr. Matendechero emphasized the importance of engaging all stakeholders, including the media, proper coordination, and effective communication in the response efforts to safeguard the health of all Kenyans. In attendance was the Acting Director of Public Health, Dr. Grace Ikahu.

[WHO Kenya @WHOKenya]

Congratulations to Dr Deborah Barasa on her nomination as Cabinet Secretary for Health in Kenya. Dr Barasa has been with @WHO for 4 years, building emergency response & preparedness capacity in the #African region. She will work tirelessly towards #HealthForAll the people of 🇰🇪

[Ministry of Health @MOH_Kenya]

The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nakhumicha S. Wafula is leading Kenya’s delegation to the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva. The assembly, themed "All for Health, Health for All," brings together health ministers from WHO member countries to discuss key global health issues. Kenya will lead discussions on topics like amendments to health regulations and pandemic treaty negotiations. CS Nakhumicha aims to advocate for increased support for health programs crucial to achieving universal health coverage.

[Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus @DrTedros]

Happy #WorldHealthDay!

Today, we champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to:
-quality health services
-education
-health information
-safe drinking water
-clean air
-good nutrition
-quality housing
-decent working
-environmental conditions
-freedom from discrimination

#MyHealthMyRight