Strengthening Child Health Through Collaboration: CEBA at the KPA Annual Scientific Conference

From April 8th to 11th, 2025, the Centre for Better Health (CEBA) played a pivotal role in the Kenya Paediatric Association (KPA) Annual Scientific Conference, held in the vibrant coastal city of Mombasa. This year’s conference theme, “Collaborative Approaches to Child Health and Development,” perfectly aligned with CEBA’s mission and ongoing initiatives. The event served as a crucial platform, bringing together a diverse array of health experts, dedicated policymakers, and passionate advocates, all united by the common goal of advancing child survival and well-being across Kenya.

CEBA’s presence was marked by an exceptionally engaging exhibition booth, which became a focal point for conference participants. The booth garnered significant interest, with numerous attendees eager to delve deeper into CEBA’s impactful work in Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health + Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) and its critical advocacy efforts concerning Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The CEBA team effectively showcased their innovative approach to health promotion, particularly their adept use of digital tools and social media. This modern and accessible communication strategy was widely praised by attendees, further amplifying CEBA’s message. Strategic branding elements prominently displayed throughout the conference venue further boosted CEBA’s visibility and engagement, ensuring their mission resonated with a broader audience.

The conference itself provided a rich tapestry of insights and discussions. A highlight was the compelling keynote address delivered by Dr. Patrick Amoth, the esteemed Director General for Health. Dr. Amoth’s address underscored the paramount importance of evidence-based programming in child health, advocating for increased investment in this vital sector. He also emphasized the urgent need to strengthen health systems through innovative financing mechanisms, citing the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) as a promising example.

Beyond the keynote, a series of insightful breakout sessions delved into pressing challenges facing child health in Kenya. Discussions revolved around critical issues such as the pervasive problem of overcrowded neonatal units, the persistent shortage of skilled human resources in the healthcare sector, and significant gaps in essential tools like the Mother-Baby Booklet, a crucial resource for tracking maternal and child health. Throughout these discussions and interactions, CEBA’s active participation consistently reinforced the immense value of cross-sector collaboration, the power of digital advocacy, and the necessity of robust policy engagement. These pillars, CEBA demonstrated, are fundamental to transforming health outcomes and securing a brighter future for Kenya’s children. CEBA’s comprehensive engagement at the KPA conference not only highlighted their commitment to child health but also solidified their position as a leading voice in the ongoing efforts to improve the well-being of the next generation.