Kenya has officially endorsed the new regional Pandemic Preparedness and Response Initiative (PREPARE) launched by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in Uganda. This initiative aims to bolster pandemic preparedness and response across the Horn of Africa through deepened cross-border cooperation and enhanced early warning systems.

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for resilient healthcare systems against future health threats, influencing the creation of PREPARE.
• Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, emphasized that proactive preparation, early detection, and rapid regional collaboration are crucial for saving lives and safeguarding economies.
• The PREPARE project will focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, surveillance systems, medical supply chains, and community engagement across IGAD member states, aligning with Kenya’s National Action Plan for Health Security.