Health

The Coalition for Health Research and Development (CHREAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing evidence-based health policy and scientific collaboration following a recent coordination meeting that brought together civil society, research institutions, and development partners. The coalition plans to strategically position its work at global events. This includes the World Health Assembly and the Culture of Science Conference, to advocate for sustainable health financing and stronger research ecosystems. Speaking during the stakeholders’ meeting, Imali Ngusale, the Strategic Lead from the African Centre for Health, Climate and Gender Justice Alliance, said, “We are at the dawn of an interesting setting where the health and well-being of every individual in Kenya warrants attention.” Ngusale also said that the coalition’s renewed push to prioritize health and climate aligns with critical national and global health priorities. Accordingly, Gloria Nduku from WACI Health said that research for health is an ongoing priority for the coalition. Nduku further noted that enhancing partner coordination remains a priority, and the coalition is well-equipped and mandated to do so. “We are focused on finalising our joint timelines and clearly defining roles to amplify our impact,” added Gloria while advocating for more cohesion in the coalition. The coalition, active for over a decade, reviewed progress under its CASH initiative and identified key engagement platforms like the Kenya Lung Health Conference and the Culture of Science Conference, scheduled for later this year. Evaline Kibuchi from STOP TB said,” For the last 15 years, I have seen some improvement in tackling TB.” Kibuchi further added that she was glad that the CHREAD coalition is committed to ensuring diagnoses are well done.” Mary Muia from NOPE acknowledged the coalition’s priorities as “quintessential,” but noted a long road ahead in ensuring equal access to health services, including diagnostics and curative care. Jane Nganga added that the coalition is operating at a critical time. Nganga said, “Health policies in Kenya and in Africa as a whole warrant a fresh commitment.” The Coalition’s Coordinator, Samuel Makau, provided an update on the alliance’s coordination efforts. He noted that 2026 will be a pivotal year, with coalition members expected to deepen their engagement in health research, innovation, and collaborative initiatives. He further emphasized that the African Center for Health, Climate & Gender Justice Alliance (ACHCGA) will continue to work closely with the coalition to strengthen partnerships and advance initiatives that generate meaningful, high-impact outcomes in health and innovation. The coalition’s coordinator, Samuel Makau, provided updates on the alliance’s coordination. He mentioned that 2026 will be the year when coalition members will be engaged heavily in health and innovations.