Kenya has reinforced Ebola preparedness, Mudavadi says

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi affirmed Kenya’s continued vigilance and preparedness in response to Ebola and other emerging public health threats, noting that ongoing coordination with international partners is central to strengthening national resilience while reinforcing Kenya’s strategic position as a regional diplomatic and humanitarian hub.

Speaking during the State Department for Foreign Affairs Staff Wellness Day, he observed that recent developments have necessitated enhanced consultations within government, including high-level engagements convened by the President with development partners and the United Nations system, to assess and reinforce Kenya’s preparedness architecture in the event of Ebola-related risks.

He emphasised that although Kenya has not recorded any confirmed cases, sustained preparedness remains imperative given the country’s status as a key regional gateway for diplomacy, trade and international cooperation.

He noted that Ebola preparedness extends beyond the health sector, constituting an integral component of national security and foreign policy considerations, thereby requiring coordinated, whole-of-government engagement.

“We must remain proactive and vigilant. Complacency is not an option in the face of evolving global health threats,” he said.

Mudavadi further indicated that Kenya continues to strengthen surveillance systems, emergency response mechanisms and health infrastructure to ensure timely detection and containment of any potential public health emergencies.

He disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the United Nations aimed at further positioning Kenya as a principal hub for humanitarian coordination and logistical support within the global South.

“We are engaging the United Nations with a view to ensuring that Kenya is not only a host of international agencies, but also a strategic centre for humanitarian and logistical coordination,” said Mudavadi.

Mudavadi added that this aspiration requires robust national preparedness systems capable of supporting both domestic imperatives and international obligations.

He noted that Kenya is expanding a network of emergency preparedness and response facilities as part of its broader health security and resilience framework.

“We are deliberately building capacity not only for national response, but also in recognition of our responsibility within the international system,” stated Mudavadi.

Mudavadi described the wellness initiative as an important institutional tradition that reinforces resilience, cohesion, and effectiveness within the foreign service.

He commended the State Department for Foreign Affairs under the leadership of the Principal Secretary for sustaining the annual wellness programme, noting that it provides a valuable platform for team building, stress management, and strengthening institutional cohesion.

“This initiative plays a critical role in fostering a healthy, motivated, and productive workforce, which is fundamental to the effective implementation of our foreign policy mandate,” he said.

He emphasized that a resilient and healthy workforce remains central to the delivery of Kenya’s foreign policy objectives, given the demanding and high-stakes nature of diplomatic engagements.

“Our foreign service officers remain central to advancing Kenya’s interests internationally, and their well-being directly influences institutional effectiveness,” he said.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary highlighted mental health as an increasingly important global concern, noting that stress, anxiety and burnout continue to affect workforces across institutions and jurisdictions.

“Work-related stress often manifests silently, affecting individuals who continue to serve with dedication despite personal challenges,” he observed.

He encouraged staff to fully utilize available counselling and psychosocial support services, while fostering a workplace culture that encourages openness and mutual support.

“Even a simple conversation or act of empathy can make a meaningful difference in strengthening resilience within the workplace,” he said.

He further affirmed that seeking support should be regarded as a sign of responsibility and self-awareness rather than weakness.

“Seeking assistance reflects courage, maturity, and a commitment to personal and professional well-being,” he said.

He cautioned that neglecting wellness considerations could have broader implications for institutional performance and social cohesion, including increased stress-related conditions and workplace strain.
He called for a more supportive, cohesive, and collegial working environment anchored in public service values and continuous improvement.