Mombasa, Kenya‘s oldest city, is a vibrant coastal metropolis with a rich cultural tapestry and a dynamic healthcare landscape. As of 2023, Mombasa’s population is estimated at approximately 1.31 million residents. The city exhibits a diverse demographic profile, with a significant proportion of its populace being youth; individuals aged 15 to 34 constitute about 46% of the total population. The Mijikenda community represents roughly 35% of the county’s population, while the Kamba community accounts for about 30%. Efforts to enhance healthcare services in Mombasa have been ongoing. Collaborations, such as those between Amref Health Africa and the county government, focus on strengthening primary healthcare systems and improving health outcomes. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including disparities in access to quality healthcare, resource limitations, and the need for continuous infrastructure development to meet the demands of the growing population. Addressing these issues remains a priority for both local authorities and healthcare stakeholders in Mombasa.
HEALTHCARE INSIGHTS
Mombasa, Kenya’s coastal hub, has recently witnessed several significant developments in its healthcare sector:
1. East Africa Health Security Summit
In January 2025, Mombasa hosted the inaugural East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit. This event convened leaders and health experts to discuss strategies for enhancing health security across the region. The summit underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing public health challenges.
Source:health.go.ke
2. Agreement to Strengthen Healthcare Systems
Also in January 2025, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa signed a pivotal agreement with Mombasa County. This accord aims to bolster Kenya’s healthcare infrastructure, focusing on resource mobilization and the harmonization of healthcare regulations. The initiative seeks to enhance patient safety and advance Universal Health Coverage.
Source:health.go.ke
3. Medical Oxygen Production Initiative
In October 2024, Unitaid announced a groundbreaking $22 million investment to improve medical oxygen access in sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative includes establishing new liquid oxygen production facilities in Mombasa and Nairobi, significantly boosting the region’s capacity to meet medical oxygen demands.
Source:medaccess.org
4. Leadership Appointment at Coast General Hospital
October 2024 saw the appointment of Professor Marleen Temmerman as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital. An internationally renowned expert in obstetrics, gynaecology, and public health, Professor Temmerman is expected to spearhead advancements in healthcare services in Mombasa County and the broader coastal region.
Source:aku.edu/new
5. Disease Outbreaks and Health Challenges
Mombasa has faced several health challenges, including:
• Dengue Fever: In April 2024, residents were cautioned about a potential dengue fever outbreak following reports of increased cases.
• Acute Respiratory Tract Infections (ARTIs): By March 2024, the county reported 542 ARTI cases, with 361 classified as severe and six resulting in fatalities.
Source:feltp.or.ke
• Rotavirus: In April 2023, a rotavirus outbreak led to the tragic deaths of ten children, highlighting the need for enhanced vaccination and sanitation efforts.
Source:gavi.org
These developments underscore Mombasa’s proactive approach to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and addressing public health challenges through strategic initiatives and leadership appointments.
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