Africa-Press – Kenya. Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni on Friday called for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to accelerate Kenya’s malaria elimination efforts, warning that recent gains could be lost without sustained investment.
Speaking during the End Malaria Council Kenya Private Sector Roundtable in Nairobi, Muthoni noted that malaria prevalence has dropped significantly, from 104 to 72 cases per 1,000 population.
She, however, cautioned that the fight is far from over.
“Predictable investment and shared leadership are essential to sustain Kenya’s malaria gains,” she said, urging businesses to take a more active role in prevention and control.
Muthoni emphasised that malaria remains one of the biggest threats to productivity and economic growth, particularly in regions where transmission is high.
She said the disease undermines public health and weakens the workforce, affecting long-term economic resilience.
“A healthy workforce is the backbone of a resilient economy—malaria prevention must be part of business,” she added.
The roundtable brought together key stakeholders from government and the private sector to discuss partnerships that can deliver lasting impact.
The PS highlighted the importance of integrating malaria prevention into workplace wellness programmes, urban planning, and long-term investment strategies.
She explained that while international support has been critical in reducing malaria cases, Kenya must now increase domestic financing to ensure sustainability.
The government is committed to reinforcing public health systems, she said, but private sector involvement is vital to bridge funding gaps and expand reach.
Her remarks come as Kenya intensifies efforts to meet its malaria elimination targets.
By rallying businesses to join the fight, Muriuki underscored that malaria elimination is not just a health agenda but an economic imperative, setting the stage for a renewed push towards a malaria-free Kenya where both government and private sector share responsibility for safeguarding the nation’s future.
