Skip to main content

About NPHI

History & Mandate

The Kenya National Public Health Institute (NPHI) was established through a presidential executive order published as legal notice No. 14 in the Kenya Gazette of 21 January 2022. We strengthen and promote public health issues by consolidating the management and coordination of key activities in prevention, and early detection of public health emergencies and events of concern. 

We were established because fragmented public health functions, dispersed across various sectors beyond the human health domain, result in duplication, resource wastage, and uncoordinated leadership with insufficient accountability. This fragmentation not only leads to slow response times during public health emergencies but also diminishes the effectiveness of existing public health programs.

Emerging in alignment with the contemporary global trend of consolidating response strategies to public health challenges, the NPHI stands as a pivotal cornerstone. It assumes the crucial role of serving as the National Focal Point for the International Health Regulations (2005), thereby facilitating seamless coordination and communication on public health matters. As the primary national conduit to the World Health Organization (WHO) and various regional and international health entities, the NPHI acts as a vital nexus, ensuring swift and effective collaboration on a global scale.

We're Guided by Purpose

As we discharge our core functions, the Vision, Mission, and Core Values below keep us focused and anchored in excellence with purposeful direction.

Our Vision

Alert today, alive tomorrow.

Our Mission

To enhance and safeguard lives by defending against existing and emerging public health threats, through vigilant surveillance, evidence-based scientific innovations, and nurturing proficient, adaptable public health systems.

Our Core Values

  • Excellence
  • Resilience
  • Reliability
  • Trust 
  • Integrity 
  • Innovation
  • Equity