On January 23, 2025, the Radisson Blu Hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi, became a hub of celebration and reflection as over 90 delegates from Kenya and Ghana gathered for the close-out event of the Global Health Workforce Program (GHWP) LG46 and LG73 projects. This highly anticipated event marked the culmination of two transformative initiatives aimed at strengthening health systems, improving primary healthcare delivery, and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Held under the theme “Strengthening Leadership, Management, and Governance, and Advanced Practice Nursing Workforce for Primary Health Care: A Pathway to UHC,” the event highlighted the critical importance of leadership, collaboration, and innovation in achieving sustainable healthcare transformation.
A defining highlight of the event was the attendance of Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Health, Mary Muthoni Muriuki. Her presence underscored the significance of the GHWP projects and the government’s commitment to healthcare development. In her address, the PS commended the bottom-up approach employed by the projects, emphasizing how this method ensured that all members of the community benefit from skilled professionals across all levels of care. She celebrated the strides made toward realizing Kenya’s UHC aspirations, particularly through the establishment of Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and the cultivation of leadership, management, and governance (LMG) capabilities. “When you hear the work that has been done, especially with focus on Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage dream, it is AMAZING!” she remarked. Her sentiments reflected the pride and optimism shared by attendees as they celebrated the project’s achievements.
A defining feature of the GHWP projects was the power of collaboration, which united stakeholders across the health sector, academia, and development organizations. Funded by THET and UKAID, these projects showcased how strategic partnerships and well-targeted investments can drive meaningful and lasting change. Dr. Janet Muriuki, Country Director at IntraHealth International, captured the essence of this collective effort in her remarks, acknowledging the dedication of all involved and emphasizing that “together, we make health systems stronger.” Her sentiments resonated with the audience, underscoring the necessity of shared vision and purpose in addressing complex healthcare challenges.
One of the standout achievements celebrated during the event was the 100% completion rate of LG46, a remarkable testament to the effectiveness of the program design and the commitment of all participants. This milestone reflected not only the dedication of those involved but also the meticulous planning and leadership that underpinned the project’s success. The accomplishment served as an affirmation of the transformative potential of well-structured training and capacity-building programs.
The Institute of Healthcare Management (IHM) umbrellaed at Strathmore University Business School (SBS) emerged as a key player in the success of the GHWP HG46 project, with its leadership, under Professor Kokwaro, standing out as a beacon of excellence. Prof. Kokwaro’s visionary approach emphasized the critical role of Leadership, Management, and Governance (LMG) in fostering resilient healthcare systems. His assertion that “change does not require a crowd” underscored the significance of intentional stewardship, strategic resource allocation, and innovation. Under his guidance, SBS played a pivotal role in embedding LMG principles into the project framework, ensuring the initiatives addressed immediate needs while laying a foundation for sustainable transformation.
Supporting Prof. Kokwaro was a dynamic and dedicated team from SBS, including Dr. Jackline Aridi, Judith Amolo, James Oyoo, and Anne Waithira. This team brought a unique blend of academic and financial expertise, practical insights, and project management acumen to the initiatives. Their efforts ensured the projects not only met but exceeded expectations. For young researchers and project managers involved, the GHWP projects represented an unparalleled learning opportunity. Through their participation, they gained invaluable experience in project design, implementation, and evaluation, equipping them with skills that will undoubtedly contribute to the future of healthcare transformation.
Central to the GHWP projects was the integration of LMG principles, a cornerstone of their strategy to strengthen healthcare systems. Effective LMG practices provide the foundation for streamlined service delivery, accountable governance, and empowered leadership. Through targeted training programs, the projects equipped healthcare leaders with the tools to manage resources efficiently, lead teams effectively, and govern with integrity. These efforts directly contributed to the establishment of over 20 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in Kenya, fostering integrated, patient-centered care models that are essential for achieving UHC.
The LG73 project advanced the role of Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), empowering them to address critical gaps in healthcare delivery. By expanding their scope of practice and addressing training needs, APNs were equipped to reduce waiting times, improve health education, and deliver high-quality care at the primary level. This initiative demonstrated the projects’ commitment to leveraging LMG to enhance equity and access in healthcare.
Inclusivity and gender equity were emphasized as critical dimensions of LMG during the event. Dr. Evelyne Chagina of WHO highlighted the transformative impact of women in leadership, noting that inclusive governance leads to more resilient and effective systems. Her remarks called for gender-sensitive approaches in healthcare leadership, ensuring that women’s perspectives inform decision-making and that they are represented at all levels.
As the event concluded, it was clear that the GHWP projects had left an indelible mark on the healthcare systems of Kenya and Ghana. They demonstrated that impactful change does not require immense resources but rather a commitment to collaboration, leadership, and innovation. Akacho Ekirapa of FCDO reaffirmed UKAID’s commitment to partnership-based programming, highlighting the importance of adopting innovative, low-cost technologies and prioritizing the mental well-being of healthcare workers.
The event underscored the need for sustained partnerships and domestic investment to ensure the gains achieved are not only preserved but also scaled. The 100% completion rate of LG46, the successful establishment of PCNs, and the empowerment of APNs all serve as testaments to the transformative potential of well-executed projects grounded in LMG principles.
Strathmore Business School’s role in the GHWP projects showcased its dedication to driving systemic change through education, research, and practical application. Under the guidance and leadership of Dr. Caesar Mwangi and with the contributions of an exceptional leadership team, SBS demonstrated its ability to lead and inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders. The GHWP projects have shown us the pathway to UHC—a journey marked by leadership, partnership, and resilience. As stakeholders look to the future, the emphasis must remain on building on these successes, fostering collaboration, and innovating boldly to ensure no one is left behind. The future of healthcare is bright, and its foundation lies in the enduring power of leadership and shared purpose.
Written by: Judith Adhiambo Amolo
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