Kindiki to 22,776 new graduates from KMTC: ‘Fill Kenya’s health care gaps in rural areas’

Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki has challenged the 22,776 news graduates from the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) to step up and help resolve the country’s persistent health care shortages.

Speaking at KMTC’s 94^th graduation ceremony, Prof Kindiki told the new health professionals that many counties still face severe shortages of doctors, nurses, and allied health workers.

Public hospitals remain overstretched, forcing some patients to travel long distances for basic care.“You are entering a sector under immense pressure. Your skills and commitment will be vital in closing these gaps,” he said.

He urged the graduands to serve with professionalism and dedication, particularly in underserved rural areas and informal settlements where staffing shortages have left communities with limited access to essential services.

“Your training has prepared you to save lives, support families, and drive national development. Prioritise areas where the need is greatest,” Prof Kindiki added.

Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms Mary Muthoni, welcomed the large graduating class as evidence of progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals.

“Counties are relying on your expertise to strengthen service delivery. A competent and well-distributed workforce is the backbone of an effective health system,” she said.

The ceremony brought together graduands from all 91 KMTC campuses countrywide, who received certificates, diplomas, and higher diplomas in various health disciplines.

Ms Muthoni reiterated the Ministry of Health’s commitment to expanding KMTC’s capacity to produce more skilled professionals to meet Kenya’s growing demand.