Kenya’s President names 20-member task force to audit health resources

KENYA—President William Ruto has established a 20-member task force to audit health sector resources.

This task force is deemed necessary to formulate comprehensive strategies and policies to enhance the healthcare workforce in Kenya. 

Ruto has appointed a team of highly qualified individuals to lead this task force.

Khama Rogo, a respected figure in the healthcare sector, will serve as the chairperson, and Judith Guserwa, known for her strategic leadership, will be the vice chairperson.  

The team includes experts like Patrick Amoth, John Masasabi, Toseef Din, Wilson Aruasa, Doreen Rhoda Kanyua, Dennis Miskellah, and Francis Wafula.  

Edna Tallam-Kimaiyo and Morris Kaburu, experienced in healthcare management, have been appointed joint secretaries, while Hezron Omollo and Vivienne Eyase will serve as secretaries. 

The task force has been appointed to serve for six months, effective July 5, 2024. Its secretariat will be domiciled at the Ministry of Health. 

The team’s mandate includes identifying the legal, policy, administrative, and operational constraints impeding the health sector’s human resources performance. 

They will also recommend legal, policy, administrative, institutional, and operational reforms to improve human resources for health in Kenya. 

Additionally, the task force will review the performance of human resources for health in Kenya and advise on harmonizing the terms of employment for all healthcare workers, ensuring equal work for equal pay. 

The task force has the power to regulate its own procedures, hold meetings with officials from the national and county governments, and conduct public forums or consultations as deemed necessary. 

The task force is committed to transparency and will review official reports, policies, legislation, and other documents related to its mandate.

It can co-opt experts in particular areas and create subcommittees to discharge its duties efficiently and expeditiously.  

Furthermore, they have the power to carry out studies or research to inform their work, ensuring that their recommendations are well-informed and in the best interest of the healthcare sector. 

This task force is a significant step taken by President Ruto to address the challenges faced by the healthcare sector, particularly regarding human resources. 

The government aims to improve the delivery of healthcare services in Kenya by auditing the available resources and formulating strategies to enhance the healthcare workforce. 

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