Government deploys 6,484 healthcare interns

Government deploys 6,484 healthcare interns 

By Mong'are Priscillah 

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has launched the 2025/2026 internship program, deploying 6,484 healthcare interns to accredited facilities.

Addressing a section of interns at the ceremony held at Afya House in Nairobi, CS Duale emphasized the vital role of the internship program in nurturing a competent, compassionate, and ethical healthcare workforce capable of providing good care to all Kenyans.

"These interns are not just numbers; they are the future caregivers. Each patient they interact with represents a life, a unique story, and a trust placed in their hands. I expect them to serve with dedication, humility, and professionalism."

The interns, who include doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technologists, and other healthcare professionals, will undergo a structured 12-month clinical training program that meets international standards. 

This initiative is part of the government's effort to ensure timely placement of interns and promote professional development within the healthcare sector.

CS Duale echoed the government's commitment to prioritizing health as part of its Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). He highlighted the importance of not only having technically proficient healthcare providers but also a workforce grounded in honesty, responsibility, and compassion.

He reassured Kenyans of the Ministry's dedication to transparent employment processes, strategic human resource planning, and continuous professional growth aligned with global benchmarks.

"The future of healthcare in Kenya hinges on how we mentor, train, and empower our professionals today. This internship marks the beginning of that journey."

The deployment shows a significant step towards addressing staff shortages in public health facilities and promoting equal access to healthcare services nationwide.