Sakaja highlights health transformation in Nairobi

Nairobi Governor John Sakaja has emphasized recent advancements in healthcare delivery within the city during the Kenya Health Summit 2026. He pointed to achievements in primary healthcare, maternity services, increased funding for health facilities, and the integration of digital systems. At the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Sakaja reported that Nairobi has 7,820 Community Health Promoters (CHPs), serving 780,000 households.

He stated, "We have seen a true transformation in the health sector, and I can say it with authority as a governor, in many aspects."

Sakaja highlighted improvements in essential services and a decrease in maternal mortality, using Pumwani Hospital as a case study. He noted that such hospitals, once notorious for negative news, now boast zero percent maternal mortality out of 16,500 deliveries. Additionally, Riruta Hospital is performing around 100 deliveries per month, while new maternity services have been introduced in Kayole 2 and Mathare North.

The Governor also reported that certain health facilities previously receiving Sh100,000 over two years are now getting about Sh4 million a month, allowing for enhanced healthcare provision.

Addressing the constitutional right to health, Sakaja stressed the need for government action through strategic planning and legislation. He emphasized that the right to health requires concrete implementation, not mere rhetoric. The Governor asserted that access to healthcare should not be contingent on a person's financial capability.

He expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for his contributions to the health sector, believing these efforts might become a lasting legacy. Sakaja also noted that over three million people in Nairobi have registered under the Self-Help Accounts (SHA) system, with more than one million actively paying each month. He compared Nairobi's digital health dashboard participation to Estonia's, lauding the country as a global benchmark for technology in healthcare.

Sakaja commended the thousands of Community Health Promoters nationwide for bringing health services closer to residents, reducing costs in the process. He expressed appreciation to the Health Ministry and CHPs before inviting the Council of Governors' Chairman to continue the summit.