NAIROBI- Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Monday hosted a high-level delegation from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, for strategic discussions on strengthening Kenya’s immunization program and advancing progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The meeting, held at Afya House, was led by Gavi Country Director Mr. Thabani Maphosa and focused on aligning Kenya’s national health priorities with Gavi’s continued support, particularly in the areas of immunization delivery and health systems strengthening.

In his remarks, CS Duale acknowledged Gavi’s long-standing partnership with Kenya and emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring sustained access to essential health services.

He outlined government plans to boost domestic resource mobilization through the newly established Social Health Authority.

Hosted a high-level delegation from @gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, led by Mr. Thabani Maphosa, for strategic discussions on strengthening Kenya's immunization efforts and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

I emphasized the government's commitment to domestic resource… pic.twitter.com/7dkJEu34Qx

— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) May 5, 2025

To further secure Kenya’s immunization progress, CS Duale proposed a new sustainable financing framework that would see Kenya revert to the Preparatory Financing Phase, with a gradual co-financing transition period extended up to 2035.

This phased approach, he said, would allow Kenya to strengthen its fiscal capacity while ensuring uninterrupted immunization coverage for children and vulnerable populations.

In a show of support, Gavi announced an extension of Kenya’s co-financing transition period from five to eight years, offering the country additional fiscal space to enhance healthcare infrastructure and immunization systems.

“We remain fully committed to transparency, integrity, and effective management of all partner resources,” said CS Duale. He also announced plans to establish a dedicated Programme Coordinating Unit within the Ministry of Health to streamline collaboration and optimize Gavi’s support moving forward.

The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, and senior ministry officials.

Gavi’s continued partnership with Kenya remains critical as the country accelerates efforts toward achieving universal, equitable, and sustainable healthcare for all.