Lusaka Advocates for Collaboration in the Implementation of Health Systems and Policies

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called for strengthened multi-sectoral collaboration to bolster the implementation of health systems and policies across the region.

 

Speaking at the ongoing East Africa Learning Forum held at Makerere University in Uganda, Lusaka emphasized the critical role of partnerships in ensuring sustainable, evidence-based health governance.

The forum, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), brings together global health leaders, policymakers, researchers, and development partners under the theme “Partnerships for Stronger Knowledge Systems in Africa (KNOSA).” The three-day event focuses on the integration of evidence and data in health policy formulation and system strengthening.

 

Governor Lusaka, representing Kenya’s devolved units, underscored the importance of joint efforts between national governments, county governments, international partners, and local stakeholders to achieve impactful outcomes in the health sector.

 

“Evidence availability and usage is embedded in partnerships and shared accountabilities,” said Lusaka. “We must collaborate to strengthen and ensure the successful implementation of our health systems to enhance service delivery.”

 

During a session focused on Bungoma County's maternal health data, Lusaka presented statistical analyses illustrating how reliable evidence has been instrumental in aligning local priorities with global health standards. He emphasized that data is more than just numbers; it represents both the challenges and the opportunities for targeted interventions.

 

“For us, evidence is not just about data points; it reveals the gaps and guides high-impact interventions. It shows the true burden of disease at the grassroots and shapes our planning and policy decisions,” he noted.

Highlighting the county’s maternal mortality rates, Lusaka reaffirmed Bungoma’s commitment to using national health information systems for informed decision-making.

 

“We recognize that data and evidence are the foundation of effective health governance. By collecting and analyzing data from our health facilities, we’re able to understand disparities and address the root causes of maternal and child mortality,” he said.

 

He further expressed confidence that the forum’s knowledge exchange will support the county’s efforts to implement global maternal health guidelines, enhance reproductive health education, and strengthen community-based health systems.

 

The East Africa Learning Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for regional leaders to explore innovative strategies, promote accountability, and foster collaboration in the realm of health policy and systems research.