Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has been appointed Chair of Continental Immunization Task Force 4 by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in a move expected to strengthen Kenya’s role in shaping Africa’s immunisation agenda.
Muthoni announced the appointment in a social media post, expressing gratitude to Africa CDC Director-General Dr Jean Kaseya for the confidence placed in her.
The appointment comes as African countries seek to accelerate the implementation of the Continental Immunization Strategy 2026–2030, which aims to strengthen immunisation programmes and improve access to vaccines across the continent.
Muthoni said her new role would provide an opportunity for Kenya to contribute to shaping immunisation policies and advancing sustainable public health interventions across Africa.
“This appointment represents an opportunity for our country to contribute to shaping Africa’s immunisation agenda and accelerate the implementation of the Continental Immunization Strategy 2026–2030,” she said.
She outlined key priorities for the task force, including aligning partnerships with national priorities, promoting sustainable immunisation financing, addressing barriers to vaccine access and strengthening accountability for results.
The Public Health PS also pledged to work closely with African Union member states, Africa CDC and development partners to advance equitable access to immunisation and strengthen health systems across the continent.
“I am looking forward to working with AU Member States, Africa CDC and partners to advance equitable access to immunisation and strengthen public health systems across our continent,” Muthoni stated.
Her appointment places her at the centre of continental efforts to strengthen collaboration among governments and health partners, mobilise sustainable resources for immunisation programmes and address inequalities that prevent some communities from accessing life-saving vaccines.
Immunisation remains a critical component of disease prevention and public health, particularly in protecting vulnerable populations against vaccine-preventable diseases.
The Continental Immunization Strategy 2026–2030 provides a framework for African countries and partners to coordinate efforts towards improved vaccine access, stronger immunisation systems and more sustainable financing.
Muthoni concluded by expressing her sincere gratitude to Dr Kaseya for the appointment, pledging to work with stakeholders to advance the continent’s immunisation priorities.
