The Council of Governors in Kenya has made a call for increased investment in technology to transform healthcare delivery across the country's 47 counties. This call was made during a side event titled "Connect, Power, Heal" held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 25, 2026. The event brought together county leaders, development partners, technology innovators, and health sector stakeholders to discuss ways of improving healthcare through technology.
The Council highlighted digital health and telemedicine as key tools for expanding access to specialist care, strengthening clinical mentorship, and improving patient outcomes. Digital health and telemedicine have been identified as crucial in addressing healthcare challenges in Kenya, particularly in rural and underserved areas. By leveraging technology, the Council aims to bridge the gap in healthcare delivery and ensure that all Kenyans have access to quality healthcare services.
Mombasa County Governor Abdulswamad Nassir shared the county's experience using Proximie-enabled digital surgery at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital. The technology has supported 87 surgical sessions and 143 hours of connected operating time, showcasing its potential in improving healthcare outcomes. This example demonstrates the impact that technology can have on healthcare delivery, and the Council is seeking to replicate this success across all 47 counties.
The Council also presented a 531-million-dollar "Beyond Boundaries" investment case for the intercounty maternal and perinatal death surveillance programme. The programme brings together all 47 counties to address preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and the Council is seeking global partnerships to support its implementation. This initiative aims to reduce maternal and newborn mortality rates in Kenya and ensure that all women and newborns receive quality healthcare services.
The Council of Governors emphasized the importance of partnerships and investment in technology to achieve its healthcare goals. By working with development partners, technology innovators, and health sector stakeholders, the Council aims to expand digital connectivity and health technologies across counties. This will enable the Council to achieve its goal of ensuring that no woman dies while bringing forth life and all newborns not only survive but thrive.
The "Connect, Power, Heal" side event provided a platform for county leaders and stakeholders to discuss ways of improving healthcare delivery through technology. The event showcased innovative solutions and technologies that can be used to address healthcare challenges in Kenya, and provided an opportunity for stakeholders to share their experiences and best practices. By sharing knowledge and expertise, the Council aims to accelerate the adoption of healthcare technologies across counties.
The Council of Governors says it will continue working with partners to expand digital connectivity and health technologies across counties. The Council remains committed to its goal of improving healthcare delivery and outcomes in Kenya, and is seeking global partnerships to support its efforts. With the right investments and partnerships, the Council is confident that it can achieve its goal of providing quality healthcare services to all Kenyans.
Key points
- The Council of Governors is seeking a 531-million-dollar investment to support the implementation of the intercounty maternal and perinatal death surveillance programme.
