PS Mary Muthoni Calls for Public Trust in Health Emergency Response
The PS said public confidence plays a central role in ensuring that communities receive accurate information and cooperate with health authorities during outbreaks.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni emphasizes the importance of public trust, transparency and regional cooperation in responding to public health emergencies. Photo: Ministry of Health.
By Robert Mutasi
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has emphasised the importance of public trust, transparency and regional cooperation in responding to public health emergencies.
Speaking during a Public Health Baraza at the Trust Summit 2026 in Nairobi, Muthoni highlighted lessons from Kenya’s response to Bundibugyo Virus Disease, stressing the need for preparedness, timely communication and coordinated action to protect public health.
The PS said public confidence plays a central role in ensuring that communities receive accurate information and cooperate with health authorities during outbreaks.
She called for transparent communication between governments and citizens, noting that timely updates can help address public concerns and support emergency response efforts.
Muthoni also urged international partners to strengthen regional solidarity by supporting countries that report disease outbreaks promptly. She cautioned against measures that could punish countries for disclosing outbreaks, particularly restrictions on travel and trade that may have wider economic consequences.
Her remarks highlighted the need for a coordinated approach to public health threats, especially where infectious diseases can spread across national borders.
The Bundibugyo virus disease response has underscored the importance of surveillance, early detection, information sharing and cooperation among health agencies. Public trust remains an important part of these efforts, as communities rely on clear guidance from authorities during health emergencies.
The PS’s call comes as governments and international health partners continue to explore ways to improve preparedness and strengthen cooperation in responding to infectious disease threats.
The Public Health Baraza brought together health sector leaders, policymakers and development partners at the Trust Summit 2026 to discuss the role of trust in strengthening global health cooperation and collective public health security.
Participants examined how transparency, accountability and collaboration can improve the relationship between health authorities and the public while supporting coordinated responses to emergencies.
Muthoni’s remarks placed particular emphasis on the responsibility of governments and international partners to encourage openness during outbreaks while ensuring that countries have the support needed to contain public health threats.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of building public confidence before emergencies occur, allowing health authorities to communicate effectively and mobilise communities when a crisis emerges.
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