Photo of the partners./PHOTO; AMREF Health Africa
Global health organization Amref Health Africa has announced a landmark partnership with the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) to address critical health challenges in Kenya’s informal settlements.
The collaboration, announced on December 6, 2025, targets the densely populated areas of Nairobi and Nakuru Counties, aiming to improve the health and well-being of 225,000 residents, with a focus on women, girls, and children living in extreme poverty.
Running through 2027, the initiative responds to Kenya’s “triple burden of disease” a combination of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), infectious diseases, and maternal and child health conditions exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and limited access to quality care.
Dr. Meshack Ndirangu, Country Director of Amref Health Africa in Kenya, described the partnership as a major step toward urban health resilience.
“This partnership with the Qatar Fund for Development is a crucial catalyst for urban health resilience in Kenya. By focusing on primary healthcare, WASH, and workforce capacity, we are not just treating illness but also transforming health outcomes and supporting Kenya’s path to Universal Health Coverage, ensuring that no one is left behind in Nairobi and Nakuru’s informal settlements,” he said.
Addressing the Triple Burden of Disease
Informal settlements in Nairobi and Nakuru face a complex health crisis.
Over 50% of hospital admissions are linked to lifestyle-driven NCDs, while up to 70% of infectious diseases stem from unsafe water and poor sanitation.
Children and women also suffer high rates of stunting (up to 27.9%) and anaemia, which impede mental and physical development and perpetuate cycles of poverty.
Meanwhile, health facilities are under-resourced and understaffed, lacking essential diagnostic tools and qualified personnel, making quality care inaccessible to the most vulnerable populations.
The Amref-QFFD partnership will leverage Kenya’s Primary Health Care (PHC) framework to address these systemic challenges, with a focus on sustainable, community-centered interventions.
Three-Point Strategy to Build Resilient Urban Health
The partnership will focus on three key strategies:
Health system upgrades and rapid response: Selected health facilities will be equipped with essential diagnostics, and Amref’s innovative mobile clinic model will be deployed into informal settlements.
These “one-stop” clinics will provide screening, immunization, and NCD management directly to the community.
Improving access to safe water and sanitation: Climate-smart water systems will be installed in facilities and communities, alongside strengthened Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures and construction of safe, gender-segregated toilets.
Strengthening the health workforce: The project will recruit new staff while enhancing the skills of over 600 frontline health workers, community health promoters, and pharmacists through digital training and mentorship programs.
Mr. Fahad Hamad Al-Sulaiti, Director General of QFFD, emphasized the initiative’s people-centered approach:
“Quality healthcare is a fundamental human right and the foundation of resilient communities. Through our partnership with Amref Health Africa, we are investing in practical solutions that strengthen primary healthcare, expand access to safe water and sanitation, and empower frontline health workers. This initiative reflects Qatar’s commitment to equitable, inclusive development and sustainable health systems,” he said.
Looking Ahead
The partnership represents a significant investment in urban primary healthcare, workforce development, and community infrastructure.
By addressing the immediate health needs of Nairobi and Nakuru’s informal settlements while strengthening systemic capacity, the initiative aims to create long-term resilience and improve health outcomes for some of Kenya’s most vulnerable populations.
About Amref Health Africa
Amref Health Africa is one of the largest African-led international health and development organisation, transforming the lives of more than 20 million people each year across 30+ countries through various innovations in health.
Headquartered in Kenya, Amref has spent 68 years creating a lasting health change in partnership with governments and communities.
About Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD)
Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) is the State of Qatar’s official provider for international development and humanitarian assistance.
QFFD leads transformative change by translating Qatar’s commitment to global solidarity into action, advancing progress toward a just, sustainable, and inclusive world through innovative finance, strategic programs, and high-impact partnerships.
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