Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has flagged off 80 ultra-portable AI-powered digital X-rays and launched Kenya’s Integrated Lung Health Guidelines in a major step toward combating tuberculosis and other respiratory diseases.
The digital X-ray systems feature Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) software, representing a significant advancement in Kenya’s fight against TB and other lung conditions. This initiative will enhance diagnosis, screening, and early treatment of chronic respiratory illnesses affecting Kenyans.
During the ceremony at Kenya Medical Supply’s Authority (KEMSA) Embakasi Grounds in Nairobi, CS Duale emphasized the government’s commitment to building a proactive, people-centered, and future-ready health system. He highlighted how diseases like asthma and post-TB complications are devastating communities, undermining health, dignity, productivity, and hope.
The AI-powered X-ray units will accelerate the interpretation of chest images, enabling early detection of TB and other lung conditions. This technology will reduce missed cases and delays in detection while expanding access to quality care in underserved communities and primary healthcare facilities.
CS Duale confirmed that Kenya has surpassed key 2020 WHO End TB milestones and is progressing toward 2025 targets. “We have achieved a 41 percent reduction in TB incidences and a 65 percent drop in TB mortality. These gains reflect strategic investments in early detection, evidence-based treatment plans, and HIV-TB integration,” he stated.
Duale acknowledged development partners for their pivotal support, noting their tangible impact on the country’s health security. He urged county leadership and governors to prioritize TB and lung health investments, emphasizing that true health security begins in primary healthcare facilities funded through county budgets.
Khatra Ali, Director of Health at the Council of Governors, praised Kenya’s leadership in adopting digital innovations to strengthen health systems and improve equity in diagnostic services. “We can ensure that every county benefits from the innovation and that no Kenyan in need is left behind in accessing timely TB and lung health services,” she said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and AMREF representatives committed to guiding healthcare providers in managing respiratory diseases, in line with Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals. TB remains a critical public health threat, with 96,865 drug-sensitive TB cases and 750 drug-resistant cases recorded in 2024.
Separately, CS Duale expressed concern over the ongoing strike by Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) members in Kiambu County, citing a significant increase in maternal mortality rates. He attributed the prolonged strike to poor leadership and urged Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi to take decisive action to resolve the crisis.
