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Kenya’s healthcare sector is set for a significant boost following a Sh1.8 billion grant from China aimed at upgrading key hospitals across the country.
The agreement was signed on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Treasury Building by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Kenya, Guo Haiyan. The grant is expected to enhance healthcare infrastructure and improve service delivery in select hospitals nationwide.
“This grant is a significant step in strengthening our healthcare infrastructure and ensuring quality medical services for all Kenyans,” said CS Mbadi during the signing ceremony.
The funds will be used to upgrade several hospitals, including Londiani Referral Hospital, Baringo County Referral Hospital, Kilifi Hospital, Misikhu Hospital, Bildad Kagia Hospital, and Kaimosi Farmers Training College.
The agreement highlights the growing partnership between Kenya and China, reinforcing strong diplomatic and economic ties. Speaking at the event, Mbadi expressed appreciation for China’s continued support, emphasizing its role in advancing Kenya’s development agenda.
“The partnership underscores strong bilateral ties between Kenya and China,” he noted. “This grant is a significant boost to Kenya’s healthcare sector.”
The planned upgrades align with the government’s broader effort to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by improving access to quality medical services.
This grant follows a Sh40 billion loan Kenya secured from China in September 2024 during President William Ruto’s official visit to Beijing. The loan is designated to complete 15 stalled infrastructure projects across more than ten counties, aiming to stimulate regional development and economic growth.
China remains Kenya’s largest bilateral lender, with the government indicating that continued borrowing is necessary for national development. As of March 2024, Kenya’s debt to China stood at approximately Sh920.52 billion, primarily funding infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and port developments.
A recent Health Facility Census report from 2023 revealed that many healthcare facilities in Kenya lack essential infrastructure, affecting service delivery. The census, which assessed 14,366 health facilities, found that while 80% had a reliable power and water supply, 51% lacked functional ambulances.
Additionally, 69% of facilities did not use an electronic healthcare information system (EHIS), with only 62% of those with an EHIS utilizing integrated systems. The report also highlighted gaps in disability-friendly infrastructure, with only 4% of facilities meeting comprehensive accessibility standards, including ramps, wheelchairs, and specialized maternity beds.
The report recommended increased investment to improve access to piped water, ensure all-weather road connectivity, and establish power backup systems in all health facilities.
The latest Chinese grant is expected to contribute significantly toward bridging these gaps, ensuring that upgraded hospitals are better equipped to serve patients effectively. With Kenya striving to enhance its healthcare system, strategic partnerships such as this are crucial in addressing infrastructure deficiencies and improving overall service delivery.
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