March 12, 2025, marks five years since Kenya confirmed its first COVID-19 case, an event that triggered a series of health, economic, and social challenges. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in Kenya’s healthcare system, disrupted businesses, and reshaped public perceptions of disease preparedness. While the country has made notable strides in strengthening its response mechanisms, the question remains whether it is adequately prepared for future health crises.
Kenya’s healthcare system faced significant strain during the pandemic. The surge in infections overwhelmed hospitals, leading to a scramble for intensive care unit beds, oxygen supplies, and personal protective equipment. The government had to act swiftly, expanding healthcare capacity and improving laboratory testing. According to Dr. James Mwangi, an infectious disease specialist at Kenyatta National Hospital, these improvements were necessary but not sufficient. He points out that while Kenya increased its ICU capacity and enhanced disease surveillance, there is still a lack of coordination between county and national governments when responding to emergencies. A more integrated and well-funded system, he argues, would ensure quicker responses to future outbreaks.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized Kenya’s efforts in rolling out mass vaccination campaigns and implementing public health measures. However, experts stress that pandemics will continue to be a threat, and sustained investment in research and early detection systems is crucial. Kenya’s experience has highlighted the need for better preparedness strategies, particularly in enhancing the country’s ability to manufacture vaccines and medical supplies.
Beyond the healthcare sector, COVID-19 left a profound economic impact. Businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, struggled to stay afloat due to lockdowns and restrictions. Many entrepreneurs, like John Kamau, a Nairobi-based retailer, faced severe losses that took years to recover from. The disruptions in global supply chains and inflationary pressures that followed have made it even harder for businesses to return to pre-pandemic levels. Kamau recalls how overnight losses nearly forced him out of business, emphasizing that even today, economic challenges persist.
For many ordinary Kenyans, the pandemic was a wake-up call in terms of personal health and financial preparedness. Faith Atieno, a resident of Kahawa Sukari, admits that before COVID-19, she never considered the importance of vaccines or emergency savings. The experience changed her perspective, and she now prioritizes both. This shift in mindset reflects a broader change in public attitudes toward health emergencies.
The Kenyan government has since taken steps to strengthen its preparedness for future pandemics. Recently, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, along with WHO officials, visited Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to engage with the Border Management Committee on improving disease surveillance. Measures such as activating the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC) and repurposing the Mpox taskforce to oversee Ebola response have also been implemented. National and county emergency operations centers have been strengthened, and trained rapid response teams remain on standby for immediate deployment. Screening at high-risk entry points like Busia, Malaba, Suam, and JKIA continues as part of ongoing surveillance efforts.
Despite these measures, experts warn that Kenya’s preparedness is still a work in progress. Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health, acknowledges that while Kenya has improved its capacity to respond to health threats, long-term sustainability is key. Funding gaps, healthcare worker shortages, and delays in policy implementation remain major challenges. The government has been urged to integrate pandemic preparedness into national security planning to ensure a more coordinated approach.
With emerging disease threats, such as the Ebola outbreak in neighboring Uganda, Kenya’s experience with COVID-19 should serve as a foundation for building resilience. The lessons learned must translate into concrete action before the next global health emergency strikes. Whether Kenya has truly absorbed these lessons or will repeat past mistakes remains to be seen.
