3.1 million Kenyans living with chronic kidney disease, says Health Ministry

Africa, Health

NAIROBI, KENYA (Agency Report/By Michael Omondi) — March 13, 2026 — Approximately 3.1 million Kenyans are living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), a growing public health concern driven by rising cases of hypertension and diabetes, the Ministry of Health has said.

Speaking during World Kidney Day at Kenyatta National Hospital, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale noted that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 43 percent of all deaths in Kenya, underscoring the need for prevention, early diagnosis, and management. He said the government is prioritising routine screening for blood pressure and glucose at community and primary healthcare levels.

Access to specialised kidney care is expanding under the Social Health Authority (SHA), which has processed over Sh104 billion in claims, supporting dialysis, nephrectomy, and transplants. Duale added: “The Ministry is strengthening partnerships with accredited providers to widen access to transplant services, with patients now able to receive kidney transplantation at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi under SHA-approved packages.”

To improve governance and oversight, the Ministry has set up an independent review committee and is developing a National Transplant Registry. Investments are also being made in training and infrastructure through the East Africa Centre of Excellence in Urology and Nephrology, alongside new renal units across counties.

The forthcoming Kenya National Guidelines for Kidney Diseases 2026 will standardise care nationwide, supported by integrated health data systems under the Digital Superhighway initiative. Duale urged Kenyans to adopt healthy lifestyles, including regular check-ups, physical activity, hydration, and reduced salt intake.

Present at the event were Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth and Kenyatta National Hospital CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe. (Kenya News Agency).