Parliament Approves Dr. Patrick Amoth as Director-General for Health.

The National Assembly has approved the appointment of Dr. Patrick Omwanda Amoth as the Director-General for Health, following a favorable recommendation from the Health Committees of both the National Assembly and the Senate. The committees highlighted Dr. Amoth’s extensive knowledge and experience, having served in an acting capacity for four years. They confirmed that he has met all statutory and constitutional requirements for the role.

Endebess MP Robert Pukose, Chair of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health, emphasized Dr. Amoth’s compliance with all legal requirements during a special motion on Wednesday. Dr. Pukose stated, “The Committees, having considered the suitability, competence, experience, and integrity of Dr. Amoth following the approval process, and taking into account their observations and findings, recommend that Parliament approves the nomination of Dr. Patrick Omwanda Amoth, EBS, for appointment as the Director-General for Health under Section 16 of the Health Act (Cap. 241).”

“The Committees observed further that the issues raised in the memorandum were satisfactorily addressed by the nominee,” he added.

Seconding the motion, Chuka Igambang’ombe MP Patrick Munene Ntwiga commended Dr. Amoth for his patience and noted his extended service in an acting capacity. “I want to tell this House today and the country that we finally have a man in Dr. Amoth who will lead the Ministry of Health as the Director-General of Health, offering solid counsel and advice to the Cabinet Secretary,” said Munene. “Dr. Amoth has the experience, knowledge, and passion for the Ministry of Health. He has networks across the world that will benefit this country and commands respect and authority within the Ministry of Health,” he added.

Munene urged Dr. Amoth to guide the new Cabinet Secretary for Health, should she be approved, emphasizing that she will need significant guidance. He stated that Dr. Amoth is one of the few who truly understands the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Amoth brings over 30 years of experience in health systems management, reproductive health, and public health at community, national, regional, and global levels. He has served as the acting Director-General for Health since January 2020. During his tenure, he developed key national and international health policies, including Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage roadmap, the introduction of pneumococcal vaccines, and the management of the COVID-19 pandemic.