AMPATH Hands Over Key Health Programs to Counties in Major Push for Self-Reliant Healthcare

The transition of critical health programs from AMPATH Uzima to county governments has officially begun, marking a major milestone in the effort to build sustainable and locally managed healthcare systems across Kenya.

The transition is expected to strengthen county ownership of healthcare services while ensuring continuity of essential programs previously supported through donor funding. The move comes at a time when global donor priorities are shifting, prompting counties to establish resilient systems capable of independently sustaining healthcare delivery.

The process is anchored on four key pillars: asset management, human resources, healthcare services, and information and communication technology (ICT) systems. County governments are now expected to gradually assume full responsibility for programs that have for years been supported under donor-funded arrangements.

Speaking during the transition discussions, County Secretary Philip Meli emphasized the need for collaboration, accountability, and proper planning to guarantee uninterrupted healthcare services during and after the transition period.

Meli said counties must safeguard the investments made through partnerships with AMPATH Uzima and other development partners by institutionalizing systems that promote efficiency, continuity, and accountability.

“This transition is not simply about handing over responsibilities. It is an opportunity for counties to strengthen local leadership in healthcare delivery while ensuring communities continue receiving quality services without disruption,” he said.

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services Janet Kurgat reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to sustaining healthcare programs and protecting gains made in HIV care, maternal and child health, laboratory systems, and digital healthcare services.

Kurgat underscored the importance of retaining skilled healthcare workers, strengthening health infrastructure, and integrating digital systems into county operations to guarantee seamless service delivery.

County leaders also acknowledged the significant contribution made by AMPATH Uzima in strengthening healthcare systems through investments in workforce development, electronic medical records, laboratory systems, and community healthcare services.

Speaking on behalf of the AMPATH Uzima leadership, Newton Odunga said the transition is firmly anchored on sustainability and county ownership of health programs.

Odunga noted that AMPATH Uzima has over the years invested heavily in healthcare infrastructure, digital health systems, workforce training, and innovative service delivery models aimed at strengthening county health systems.

“The transition seeks to ensure that the gains achieved over the years are preserved and expanded under county leadership,” he said.

He added that AMPATH Uzima will continue offering technical support, mentorship, and guidance throughout the transition phase to ensure counties are fully prepared to independently manage the programs.

A major component of the transition involves the transfer and strengthening of ICT infrastructure, including electronic medical records (EMRs), data management systems, networking equipment, and digital reporting platforms.

Health experts say maintaining and strengthening these systems will be crucial in improving patient management, enhancing reporting efficiency, and supporting informed decision-making at the county level.

Stakeholders further proposed the establishment of a multi-sectoral transition team to coordinate planning, implementation, documentation, and accountability throughout the process.

Key focus areas identified during the discussions include the transfer and accountability of medical and ICT assets, retention of skilled human resources, continuity of patient-centered healthcare services, strengthening county-owned digital health systems, and sustainability planning.

The transition of AMPATH-supported programs to county governments is widely viewed as a major step toward achieving locally driven and sustainable healthcare systems capable of responding effectively to future health challenges.

Leaders expressed optimism that with proper financing, strong leadership, and coordinated planning, counties will successfully sustain and expand the gains achieved through years of partnership with AMPATH Uzima.

Among those present during the discussions were Acting Chief Officer for Promotive and Preventive Health Dr. Billy Lubanga, Chief Officer for Clinical Services Ambrose Tarus, and various section heads.