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Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Thursday marked World Kidney Day at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), calling on Kenyans to take kidney health seriously and get screened early.

Speaking at the national celebrations held under the theme, “Kidney health for all: Caring for people, protecting the planet,” CS Duale stressed the urgent need for prevention, early detection, and healthy lifestyles.

“Chronic kidney disease affects nearly 3.1 million Kenyans, largely driven by diabetes and hypertension. Early screening and preventive care can save lives,” CS Duale said.

Government action and support

Under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda, the Ministry of Health is shifting from reactive treatment to community-based preventive care.

Community Health Promoters (CHPs) are now helping identify high blood pressure and blood sugar early, preventing kidney complications before they worsen.

The government has also invested heavily in treatment and support, processing over Sh104 billion in claims for dialysis, nephrectomy, and kidney transplants.

Public-private partnerships now allow patients access to transplant services at Aga Khan Hospital.

To ensure ethical and safe organ donation, a National Transplant Registry is being established following concerns from last year.

Meanwhile, specialist training is expanding through the East Africa Centre of Excellence in Urology and Nephrology, and modern renal units are being deployed across counties.

The human impact

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including CKD, now account for 43% of deaths in Kenya.

Experts say lifestyle factors--including high salt intake, inactivity, and poor hydration--are major contributors.

Mr Duale encouraged all Kenyans to:

• Schedule regular check-ups
• Stay hydrated
• Engage in physical activity
• Reduce salt consumption

Dignitaries and experts

The event was attended by Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth, KNH CEO Dr Richard Lesiyampe, Kenya Renal Association Chair Dr Jonathan Wala, and Dr Martin Sirengo of the Kenya Blood Transfusion and Transplant Services (KBTTS), among others.

World Kidney Day 2026 shines a spotlight on the growing burden of kidney disease in Kenya and the steps government and communities are taking to reduce preventable deaths.

With millions at risk, the message is clear: prevention saves lives, and early action is critical.