By Michelle Ndaga
The Government of Kenya has intensified efforts to strengthen early detection and management of tuberculosis (TB) and other chronic respiratory diseases through the deployment of ultra-portable digital chest X-ray machines powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Monday flagged off 80 AI-enabled X-ray units and launched the Integrated Lung Health Guidelines at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) headquarters in Nairobi. The initiative, supported by the Global Fund, is a major step toward improving TB diagnosis, advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and accelerating Kenya’s goal to End TB.
According to the Ministry of Health, the X-ray units will be distributed to primary healthcare facilities across 43 counties, with priority given to underserved and hard-to-reach areas. The technology is expected to significantly reduce TB transmission through faster detection and timely treatment.
In his remarks, CS Duale commended KEMSA’s ongoing reforms, noting that the agency’s order fill rate has improved from 32% to 67%, while drug delivery turnaround time to counties has dropped from 33 days to 12. He said the Ministry’s goal under UHC is to achieve 100% order fulfillment, ensuring that all health facilities receive essential medical supplies efficiently and transparently.
The newly launched Integrated Lung Health Guidelines, developed with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO), set clear standards for diagnosis, patient and staff safety, and structured follow-up care.
Duale emphasized that the initiative showcases strong collaboration between the government, international partners, and local stakeholders, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to a healthier and more equitable future through innovation, prevention, and patient-centred care.
The event was attended by senior officials including Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, KEMSA CEO Dr. Waqo Ejersa, and representatives from WHO, Global Fund, Clinton Health Access Initiative, and Centre for Health Solutions.
