African Political Economy (Political Science focus) | 11 September 2011
Resilience Strategies in African Health Systems: Insights from Kenya's Epidemic Response Dynamics
K, i, s, i, i, K, i, b, e, t, i
Abstract
Recent global health crises have highlighted the vulnerabilities of African health systems in responding to epidemics. A qualitative analysis of Kenyan government responses to recent outbreaks was conducted using interviews with key stakeholders and document review. Findings reveal that a coordinated intersectoral approach involving the Ministry of Health, National AIDS Control Council, and local communities significantly improved epidemic response effectiveness by reducing transmission rates by 20% over six months. The findings underscore the importance of integrating multiple sectors in health systems for effective epidemic response and suggest a model that can be replicated across Africa. Policymakers should prioritise strengthening intersectoral collaboration, enhancing surveillance networks, and investing in community engagement programmes to build resilient health systems.