The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety as a cornerstone of Universal Health Coverage.

Speaking at the Worl patient safety Day symposium hosted by the Aga Khan University Hospital, Public Health Princcipal secretary Mary Muthoni noted that the government has made this ppossible through rolling out key initiatives including the Community Health Strategy, the Primary Healthcare Fund, and the electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to enhance early detection, prevent medical errors, and strengthen accountability across the health system.

Muthoni, emphasized the need to integrate patient safety from childbirth through early childhood. She acknowledged progress made in reducing child mortality but cautioned that preventable causes such as birth asphyxia, prematurity, and infections continue to pose serious challenges.

"Patient safety is not a checklist but a shared value,” she said, calling for stronger collaboration among healthcare workers, institutions, and partners to ensure safe and quality care.

The Principal Secretary further affirmed that safeguarding newborns and children reflects the true strength of Kenya’s health system and represents a vital step toward the full realization of Universal Health Coverage.