Members of both the National Assembly and the Senate have raised concerns over attempts by donor partners in the health sector to economically disadvantaged Kenya through practices that foster over-dependence on their support for financing programs related to HIV/AIDS, malaria, and vaccine procurement.

In a joint sitting of the Departmental Committee on Health of the National Assembly and the Senate’s Standing Committee on Health, Members said that these agencies have developed a habit of creating algorithms designed to advance their interests at the expense of the Kenyan people.

The Members made these remarks during the approval hearing of the nominee for Director General of Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth.

Ndhiwa MP, Hon. Martin Owino sought to know whether Kenya has plans to be self-reliant in procurement of vaccines.

“Are there plans to have the country self-reliant in matters related to procurement of vaccines, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and support for TB programs?” Hon. Owino asked.

In his response, Dr. Amoth stated that the Ministry of Health has begun developing a sustainability plan that will provide Kenya with greater leverage in managing and running its programs.

He added that by assessing the fiscal space, available resources, human resources for health, and existing infrastructure, the country will be able to finance all programs currently funded by donors through the national budget within the next five years.

“Sometimes it is extremely difficult, especially when you are in a situation where this type of support is only available from a specific partner. These are the conditions and the price you sometimes have to pay for being part of the underdeveloped world,” he said.

Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Health, Hon. (Dr.) Robert Pukose (Endebess) sought to know from Dr. Amoth what his plans would be in the event his appointment is approved.

Dr. Amoth, who has been acting the Director General for Health, for approximately four years pledged to address the longstanding human resource conflicts affecting various departments within the Ministry of Health, including resolving issues related to industrial strikes and the posting of medical interns.

“If approved, I will be requesting your support in adequately resourcing this institution to help us address industrial strikes, such as the one concerning the posting of medical interns, and to manage the human resources within the Ministry of Health and the county governments,” said Dr. Amoth.