PS Oluga Challenges Communication Experts to Support Government Projects

The Principal Secretary, State Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Health, Dr. Ouma Oluga, has called on communication professionals across the ministry and its affiliated agencies to bolster their communication strategies to effectively support government health programmes.

Speaking during a consultative meeting with Heads of Communications from various Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGA’s) at Afya House, on 21st November 2025, Dr. Oluga underscored the critical role of coordinated communication in countering the growing threats of misinformation and disinformation, which often overshadow the government’s efforts in health service delivery.

“Misinformation thrives in silence. Our responsibility is to speak boldly, truthfully, and consistently for the health and wellbeing of our nation and therefore communication bridges the gap between policy and the public. Without that bridge, even the best reforms remain invisible” he said.

The PS emphasized the need to strengthen public understanding of key health policies, programmes, and reforms through clear, timely, and evidence based communication. He highlighted that fragmented communication among SAGAs has contributed to gaps in public awareness and visibility of major government initiatives, including reforms within the health sector.

“We need a coordinated approach at the Ministry to strengthen communication efforts that accurately and effectively disseminate information on government projects and initiatives for the benefit of the communities we serve,” he said.

To address this, Dr. Oluga urged communication experts to work collaboratively to enhance coherence and alignment across the Ministry, State Departments, and SAGAs. This, he said, will ensure consistent messaging, promote public trust, and improve the reach and impact of government health information. “Effective communication is not an accessory to health service delivery—it’s the lifeline that connects policy to the people and transforms programmes into impact…when we speak in one coordinated voice, we strengthen trust, counter misinformation, and bring the true story of our health reforms to the forefront.” the PS added.

He further stressed the importance of supporting the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda through proactive and accessible communication that empowers counties, partners, and the public with accurate health information. Strengthened communication, he stated, is vital for promoting transparency, accountability, and shared ownership of health sector reforms.

Dr. Oluga tasked the communication teams to develop a comprehensive communications plan that incorporates:

• Proactive media engagement

• Timely and coordinated responses to emerging issues

• Impact-driven storytelling focused on patient experiences, innovations, and strategic partnerships

• Strengthening communication focal points across SAGAs for improved information flow by amplifying the health information that is disseminated by the various SAGAs.

The meeting brought together communication heads from all health SAGAs, including KEMRI, in a renewed effort to harmonize communication approaches and ensure that government health interventions receive the visibility and support they deserve. The SAGAs represented include;Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (Eldoret), Jaramogi Odinga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, National Syndemic Disease Control Council, Mwai Kibaki Referral Hospital Nyeri, Social Health Authority, Digital Health Authority, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, Kenya Medical Supplies Authority among others.