Nairobi: Principal Secretary (PS) for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, has called for coordinated action to advance preparations for the Kenya Public Health International Conference (KEPHIC) 2026, strengthen disease outbreak control, and enhance preparedness for anticipated El Ni±o-related health risks.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the weekly management meeting, PS Muthoni emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing preparations for the KEPHIC 2026, scheduled for 27-29 October 2026, with registration available at kephic.publichealth.go.ke. Muthoni highlighted the importance of strengthening disease outbreak control and readiness for El Ni±o-related health risks.
Muthoni urged SAGAs, directorates, and divisions to take ownership of the Conference, focusing on prevention, primary health care, health security, and climate resilience. The Ministry is also enhancing surveillance and response to current public health threats.
The PS disclosed that as of 12 September 2026, Kenya had recorded 1,309 confirmed mpox cases and 19 deaths across 40 counties, 469 measles cases with one death, and a case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 in Dadaab, Garissa County. She assured that the Ministry remains vigilant for Ebola at entry points and for water- and vector-borne diseases, emphasizing county preparedness, immunization, community engagement, and health worker protection.
KEPHIC 2026, themed ‘Delivering Universal Health Coverage through Resilient, Equitable and Quality Health Systems’, will serve as a platform for public health professionals, researchers, policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders to share knowledge, discuss emerging public health priorities, showcase innovations, and strengthen collaboration towards resilient, equitable, and quality health systems.
