EACC Embarks on Corruption Risk Assessment of the Universal Health Coverage Programme

13:10:2021: The EACC in partnership with the Ministry of Health has embarked on a Corruption Risk Assessment of the Universal Health Coverage program. The assessment spearheaded by the Preventive Services Directorate was officially launched at Afya House on 13th October 2021 by Commissioner Mwaniki Gachoka. Speaking during the event, Commissioner Gachoka commended the Ministry of Health for partnering with EACC in rolling out the exercise.

The Commissioner noted that EACC and the Ministry of Health will review established policies and procedures in order to detect corrupt practices and, at the same time, make recommendations on where and how to seal corruption loopholes. “The overall objective of this review is to make appropriate recommendations to the Ministry of Health and County Governments on ways and means of promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity through application of systems of work that offer no room for corrupt practices.” He said.

While representing the Principal Secretary State Department for Health, Dr Susan Mochache, the Ministry of Health Director General, Dr. Patrick Amoth said that the Ministry will ensure the assessment is successful by providing all the support necessary. “UHC is identified as one of the big four agendas and it is a top priority for the Ministry of Health and for the entire country as well.” He said.

Dr. Amoth observed that resources allocated to the health sector were substantial and that there were multiple risks that came along. “As such, there is need for anti-corruption prevention measures to safeguard our resources.” In her remarks, Ag. Director Preventive Services Directorate, Ms Emily Chege said that the review will take 28 days and, upon conclusion, the Commission will present findings and recommendations to the leadership of the health sector, Governors and other stakeholders for further action.