By Maxwell Maungu
Kenya’s health sector is set to benefit from a substantial funding increase in the 2025/26 national budget, with Sh138.1 billion allocated—up from Sh127 billion in the previous financial year. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi said the allocation reflects the government's continued commitment to improving healthcare access and quality nationwide.
One of the most notable gains is in primary healthcare, which received nearly double its previous funding—rising from Sh7.1 billion to Sh13.1 billion. The funding is intended to enhance community-level services and strengthen preventive care, a key pillar in the government’s long-term health strategy.
In the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, the budget includes Sh17.3 billion allocated through the Global Fund, alongside Sh4.6 billion for vaccine procurement and distribution.
The Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund saw a major increase as well—receiving Sh8 billion, up from just Sh3 billion last year—an acknowledgment of the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in the country.
Cancer care also received attention, with Sh1 billion earmarked for the construction of a new cancer center in Kisii. In addition, Sh100 million each has been allocated to upgrade cancer units at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH).
Referral hospitals will receive Sh42.4 billion, while Sh5.2 billion is allocated to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) for medical supplies, and Sh2.7 billion to KEMRI for research and innovation. Further allocations include funding for pediatric and burns units at KNH.
However, the budget also introduced sharp cuts to key social health programs, raising concern among health advocates and opposition leaders.
Funding for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) has been slashed from Sh42 billion to Sh6.2 billion, casting doubt on the future of the flagship program meant to ensure equitable healthcare for all. Support for orphans, the elderly, and persons with disabilities has also been reduced, though specific figures were not immediately released.
Critics argue that while the budget shows strong investment in infrastructure and disease management, the reduction in social protection programs could undermine the broader goal of achieving health equity.
“Investing in hospitals and treatment is crucial, but cutting UHC and social support risks leaving the most vulnerable behind,” said a health policy analyst who asked not to be named.
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