Gachagua Sounds Warning Over Protection of Kenyans’ Health Data in Ksh 208B US Deal
According to Omtatah, the deal was sealed without citizens being involved, hence making it “arbitrary and exclusionary.”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has expressed deep concern over the security and confidentiality of Kenyans’ health records under the Ksh 208 billion Kenya–United States Health Cooperation Framework. In an interview with KTN News on Wednesday, Gachagua argued that the agreement raises ethical and legal questions, especially because Kenyans were not adequately consulted.
Gachagua said that the government must ensure that personal medical records will not be abused or shared with foreign operators. He reiterated that every citizen of Kenya has the right to absolute privacy on their health information, and any deal involving a third-party operator must always be put under scrutiny.
“We cannot divulge our medical information without safeguards. Confidentiality is a basic right, and such sensitive data cannot be handed over for foreign research without transparency,” he said. He further questioned the credibility of the Social Health Authority, saying government assurances are unreliable if already existing institutions are already struggling.
The cooperation framework signed in Washington on December 4, 2025 stipulated that the five-year plan shall work to further strengthen Kenya’s public health priorities while ensuring long-term sustainability of the national health systems. The deal will see the United States direct more than Ksh 200 billion in health-related funding through Kenyan government structures.
Gachagua threw his weight behind a petition filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who is seeking to suspend the implementation of the deal. Omtatah claims the process violated constitutional requirements for public participation and has potential to endanger Kenyans’ right to accessible and secure health services.
According to Omtatah, the deal was sealed without citizens being involved, hence making it “arbitrary and exclusionary.”
President William Ruto has, however, defended the agreement, terming it legal and intended to promote Kenya’s interests. He maintained that the health partnership presents great prospects for the country and does not in any way present a risk to the welfare or rights of the population.
“Our commitment is not ever in question. We put Kenyans at the centre and pursue what is in the interest of the nation,” President Ruto said.
During the interview, Gachagua also delineated the reforms he would emphasize, given a chance to be in the presidency. His proposals include modernizing the National Health Insurance Fund, reinstating the Linda Mama program, strengthening partnerships with faith-based healthcare providers, better pay for doctors, and equipping health facilities to meet universal health coverage goals. “I will modernize NHIF, if given a chance, revive Linda Mama, support faith-based health facilities, and ensure hospitals and doctors get what they need,” he said.
About Author
