KNH begins digital transformation with new health management system

KENYA—Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has officially begun its transition to automation through the implementation of the Afya Apex HMIS/ERP system under Taifa Care.

The new digital platform will go live on March 20, 2026, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s healthcare modernization efforts.

Acting KNH CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, CBS, and Digital Health Agency CEO Eng. Anthony Lenaiyara led the official launch event.

The ceremony featured a live demonstration by the team that successfully piloted the system in Machakos for two months, providing concrete evidence that advanced digital healthcare solutions can work effectively in Kenyan hospitals.

Transforming hospital operations

The powerful digital platform aims to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery accuracy, and strengthen operational integration across all hospital departments.

The system seeks to transition KNH into a fully paperless institution, covering critical areas including Accident & Emergency, Triage, Registration, Radiology, Laboratory, Pharmacy, and patient registration.

This comprehensive digitalization promises to deliver faster, more efficient, and patient-centered services throughout the facility.

Infrastructure and equipment support

To support this major transition, KNH has received 1,286 tablets, all equipped with power banks to ensure continuous operation even during power interruptions.

The hospital has also secured a 10-year internet connectivity commitment, guaranteeing smooth and uninterrupted service delivery as staff adapt to the new digital workflows.

Staff training takes priority

Dr. Lesiyampe emphasized that staff training now takes center stage as the hospital moves into the next implementation phase.

“Every department is preparing for this shift because this journey belongs to all of us,” he said.

The CEO acknowledged that change requires time but expressed confidence in the hospital’s collective ability to succeed.

“With teamwork, commitment, and a shared vision, we are building a smarter, stronger KNH,” Dr. Lesiyampe added.

Government commitment and future expansion

Eng. Lenaiyara reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the digital health initiative, announcing that KNH will receive free internet connectivity for the next 10 years to support seamless system operations.

“When we fully roll out this system, we expect KNH to be paperless,” he stated, highlighting the transformative scope of the project.

The Digital Health Agency CEO revealed plans to expand the system beyond Kenyatta National Hospital.

Once fully operational at KNH, authorities will scale the Afya Apex platform to Level 5 and Level 6 hospitals across the country, potentially revolutionizing healthcare delivery throughout Kenya’s public health system.