Kenya has recorded steady progress in the fight against malaria, with national incidence declining from 104 to 72 cases per 1,000 population between 2023 and 2025.
The achievements were highlighted during a consultative meeting between the Ministry of Health and the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), led by Executive Secretary Joy Phumaphi.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the progress reflects strengthened accountability systems, expansion of local production of antimalarial commodities and renewed commitment to the Zero Malaria Campaign.
The CS noted that integrated service delivery supported by more than 107,000 Community Health Promoters has improved early case detection, referrals, treatment adherence and uptake of preventive interventions at household level. This, he said, has contributed to better survival rates among children under five and improved maternal health outcomes, particularly in high-burden counties.
Guided by the Kenya Malaria Strategy 2023–2027, the government is targeting an 80 per cent reduction in malaria incidence, a 90 per cent reduction in mortality and interruption of indigenous transmission in selected counties by 2028.
To accelerate progress, Duale proposed closer collaboration with ALMA under Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage agenda. Key proposals include strengthening data-driven decision-making through the Reproductive-Age Mortality Survey (RAMOS), scaling up the Rapid Results Initiative to enhance planning and accountability, and mobilising sustainable financing for life-saving interventions.
The CS emphasised that strong data systems, accountability frameworks and sustainable funding are critical to eliminating malaria and reducing maternal and newborn deaths.
Kenya’s malaria response is also supported by broader health sector reforms, including the Digital Superhighway Programme, the Social Health Authority, Practice 360 and the Green Charter, all aimed at delivering equitable and affordable healthcare.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni and other senior Ministry of Health officials.
