Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is set to deliver a keynote address on Wednesday morning at the inaugural East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit (EARGHSS 2025). The summit, which commenced on Tuesday and runs until January 30, brings together leaders, policymakers, and health experts to address pressing health security challenges in the region.
The event focuses on formulating actionable strategies to bolster health security in East Africa through collaboration, innovation, and investment. Former President Kenyatta’s address is expected to highlight the importance of regional cooperation in tackling emerging health threats and strengthening healthcare systems.
“This summit provides a unique opportunity to engage with key stakeholders on the critical health security challenges facing East Africa while exploring sustainable solutions to strengthen regional health systems,” Kenyatta’s office posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The summit was officially opened on Tuesday by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, representing President William Ruto. In his opening remarks, President Ruto underscored the urgency of enhancing healthcare infrastructure, fostering regional cooperation, and investing in local vaccine production to mitigate future health crises.
“We must build resilient health systems, collaborate across borders, and prioritize local manufacturing to ensure we’re prepared for future health threats,” Ruto stated. He further emphasized the importance of developing a well-trained healthcare workforce while actively engaging the private sector and communities in health security efforts.
Strengthening Health Systems in East Africa
The summit’s agenda includes discussions on pandemic preparedness and response, strengthening regional health infrastructure, and leveraging technological innovations for better health outcomes. Participants will share insights from past health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Ebola outbreaks, to develop sustainable strategies for the future.
One of the key topics under discussion is the role of public-private partnerships in improving healthcare delivery. Experts argue that increased investment in health security infrastructure, including disease surveillance and rapid response mechanisms, is crucial to mitigating the impact of future pandemics.
With global health challenges continuing to evolve, regional summits like EARGHSS 2025 provide a critical platform for collaboration. The involvement of high-profile leaders, such as Uhuru Kenyatta, underscores the importance of sustained commitment to health security.
As the summit progresses, stakeholders aim to forge new alliances, implement policy frameworks, and secure funding commitments to enhance the region’s health resilience. Kenyatta’s keynote address is expected to set the tone for deeper engagement and concrete action in safeguarding public health across East Africa.
