The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) was proudly represented at the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79) in Geneva, Switzerland, by Dr Kahura Mundia, the Union’s Deputy National Chairperson and President of the Kenya Dental Association.
Dr. Mundia was participating as part of the Public Services International (PSI) delegation, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between KMPDU and PSI in ensuring that the voices of frontline healthcare workers are represented in global health decision-making spaces. At a time when healthcare systems worldwide are facing unprecedented pressure and transition, KMPDU’s presence at WHA79 reflects the Union’s commitment to ensuring that policy conversations are informed by the realities faced by health workers on the ground.
Convened under a backdrop of shifting global health priorities, funding uncertainty, workforce shortages, and widening inequities in access to care, the 79th World Health Assembly brought together governments, health institutions, labour organisations, and civil society to chart the future of global health governance.
Among the key priorities under discussion at the Assembly were the strengthening of health systems and infrastructure against emerging vulnerabilities, advancing Universal Health Coverage, and reinforcing global health governance mechanisms in an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving policy environment. These conversations remain deeply relevant to Kenya’s health sector, particularly as the country continues to pursue reforms aimed at expanding healthcare access while navigating financing, workforce, and service delivery challenges.
For KMPDU, participation in WHA79 is more than representation, it is an opportunity to advocate for stronger public health systems that place healthcare workers and patients at the centre of reform. The Union continues to champion sustainable investment in healthcare, dignified working conditions for medical professionals, equitable workforce planning, and resilient systems capable of responding to both present and future health crises.
As global health systems confront structural ruptures and emerging realities, KMPDU remains steadfast in advancing policies anchored on the principles of public interest, health equity, resilient systems, and People Over Profit. Through international solidarity and active participation in global platforms, the Union continues to ensure that the concerns and aspirations of Kenyan healthcare workers are heard where critical decisions about the future of health are being made.
Strong health systems begin with supported health workers.
In solidarity.
