Health Cabinet Secretary hails emergency responders as government commits to strengthening ambulance services, volunteer networks and universal healthcare delivery.
Nairobi, KENYA – Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale has commended St John Ambulance Kenya for its decades of service in saving lives and supporting emergency response efforts as President William Samoei Ruto presided over the organization’s 95th Annual Parade and Inspection Ceremony at State House, Nairobi.
The ceremony brought together senior government officials, St John Ambulance leadership, volunteers, cadets and officers to celebrate the institution’s long-standing contribution to humanitarian service, emergency preparedness and community health support.
Speaking during the event, CS Duale thanked President Ruto for his continued support to the health sector and his patronage of St John Ambulance Kenya, describing the organization as a key partner in advancing emergency medical services under the government’s Taifa Care and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
The Health Cabinet Secretary noted that for more than a century, St John Ambulance Kenya has remained a trusted national institution through its ambulance services, first aid training programmes, volunteer networks and humanitarian interventions.
“St John Ambulance Kenya has played a critical role in strengthening emergency response and supporting communities across the country. The dedication of its volunteers, cadets and officers continues to save lives every day,” CS Duale said.
GOVERNMENT PLEDGES SUPPORT TO MODERNISE EMERGENCY RESPONSE
CS Duale emphasized the need to strengthen emergency medical services as part of efforts to build a more responsive and accessible healthcare system.
He highlighted that St John Ambulance Kenya, with more than 60,000 trained volunteers, represents one of the largest volunteer movements in the country and remains an important pillar in emergency preparedness.
The Cabinet Secretary further called for the modernization of the St John Ambulance Act to align the institution’s operations with emerging healthcare needs and evolving emergency response systems.
He welcomed ongoing discussions aimed at strengthening the organization, including plans to secure a suitable long-term headquarters to support its expansion and future operations.
COMMITMENT TO SAFER AND HEALTHIER KENYA
CS Duale reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with St John Ambulance Kenya and other health partners to improve emergency response, enhance access to medical services and save more lives.
He said strengthening ambulance services and community-based health response remains central to achieving a safer, healthier and more resilient Kenya.
The 95th Annual Parade and Inspection Ceremony celebrated the discipline, sacrifice and compassion demonstrated by St John Ambulance volunteers who continue to serve communities during emergencies, disasters and humanitarian situations.
