The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in conjunction with the Novo Nordisk Foundation, the Ministry of Health, and other partners on Wednesday, (January 31, 2024), launched the Partnership for Health Professionals (PEP) in a move to address Cardiometabolic Diseases (CMD) in the country.

In recent years, Kenya has experienced a surge in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs), accounting for 50% of hospital admissions and 55% of hospital deaths.

During the launch at KMTC Gatundu, Health Cabinet Secretary Ms. Nakhumicha S. Wafula welcomed the project, highlighting its potential to address pressing health challenges and acknowledging the College’s key role in its implementation. She emphasized the importance of fit for purpose health professionals, networking, exchange programmes, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to efficiently scale up best practices and innovative approaches.

The event was attended by Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Performance, and Delivery Management Hon. Moses Kuria, who reflected on the day Gatundu campus was constructed under his leadership as the then MP for Gatundu South. He acknowledged the strong relationship with the College and encouraged further partnerships for improved healthcare solutions.

The Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said the launch aligns with the Government’s key priority of addressing the burden of life-threatening diseases, and reduction of expenditure on health. “In light of the escalating global health threat posed by CMDs, Kenya faces an urgent need to address these challenges”

Area MP Hon. Gabriel Kigombe emphasized the importance of early interventions on cardiometabolic diseases, which claim 10% of deaths annually, in Kenya alone.

KMTC Board Chairperson Mr. Joseah K. Cheruiyot who was represented by Director Hardlyne Lusui, said the Board will provide the necessary support required for the success of the programme. “Our responsibility as a training arm of the government for middle-level medical professionals is paramount, and we must equip our health workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to face the challenges presented by CardioMetabolic Diseases, he added.

KMTC CEO Dr. Kelly Oluoch expressed gratitude to the partners, affirming the College’s commitment to providing quality training. He underscored the significance of partnerships in shaping the training curriculum and preparing health professionals for the evolving healthcare landscape.

On the sidelines of the launch, the CS toured the Gatundu Level 5 Hospital to assess healthcare service delivery in line with the Universal Health Coverage agenda.

The event also saw the presence of notable figures, including the Danish Ambassador to Kenya Stephan Schønemann, Chairperson of the Board of Novo Nordisk Foundation Lars Rebien Sorensen, CEO of Non-Communicable Disease Alliance Kenya Dr. Catherine Karekezi, Amref International University Vice Chancellor Prof. Joachim Osur, General Secretary of the Christian Health Association of Kenya Dr. Samuel Mwenda, General Secretary of Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops Rev. Fr. Jude Waweru, and Executive Director of Africa Population Health Research Center Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi.