Health Ministry steps up El Niño preparedness
The Kenyan Ministry of Health has launched a contingency plan to mitigate health risks associated with the upcoming 2026/2027 El Niño season. The initiative focuses on strengthening disease surveillance and laboratory capacity to combat potential outbreaks of water-borne illnesses like cholera and typhoid.
Why it matters
Proactive disaster preparedness is critical for preventing large-scale public health crises in regions vulnerable to climate-induced flooding.
Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards/HANDOUT
The Ministry of Health has intensified preparations to mitigate health risks associated with anticipated heavy rainfall, flooding and displacement during the 2026/2027 El Niño season.
The measures are being implemented under the Health Sector El Niño Contingency Plan, which brings together the national and county governments, emergency agencies, humanitarian organisations and development partners to prepare for and respond to potential flood-related health emergencies.
Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said the coordinated approach is intended to help reduce illness and deaths by strengthening the country’s ability to anticipate, detect and respond to health threats linked to the expected weather conditions.
Particular attention has been given to water- and food-borne diseases that can increase when flooding contaminates drinking water sources and sanitation systems.
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