Nairobi implements new health law and maternal care investments

Nairobi's public hospitals are undergoing a structural transformation following the implementation of the Nairobi City County Health Services and Management Act, 2026. Assented to by Governor Johnson Sakaja, the law grants Level Five hospitals greater autonomy by establishing them as independent county entities. These facilities will now be managed by Hospital Management Boards and led by competitively appointed Chief Executive Officers who will oversee budgeting, staffing, and procurement.

Parallel to these administrative changes, the Kenyan government is intensifying efforts to reduce maternal and newborn mortality. At the inaugural Kenya Health Summit 2026, officials announced an investment of approximately KSh12.5 billion to improve survival rates. This funding includes KSh4 billion for newborn care, KSh2.5 billion for family planning, and KSh5 billion annually to recruit 5,000 nurses.

The Social Health Authority (SHA) has already reimbursed over KSh17 billion for maternal health services. Success has been noted at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, which reported nearly zero maternal deaths over the last 18 months. Additionally, the government is expanding interventions for sickle cell disease in 17 high-burden counties, including newborn screening and specialized treatment models.