On March 26th, we launched the first activity of the Combi Track LSH Kenya 2025 with a dynamic roundtable session. Bringing together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, this session set the stage for deeper collaboration between Dutch and Kenyan partners. Our goal was to align the Dutch sector with the Combi Track LSH Kenya approach and gather valuable input for upcoming activities and focus themes in 2025.
With a focus on sustainable partnerships, we explored ways to strengthen collaboration by leveraging insights from the 2024 financing strategies research. A key discussion point was how to ensure long-term financial stability and create scalable business models that benefit all stakeholders. Please find the financing instrument report of 2024 here.
Furthermore, our new local expertise partner, Open Phences, introduced their role within the Combi Track for 2025 and showcased the four Acts and strategies shaping the healthcare landscape in Kenya. These insights are crucial in understanding how policy frameworks influence collaboration and business operations for Dutch stakeholders in the country.
Policy developments & business intelligence
Sarah Spronk, Policy Coordinator Global Health from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided critical insights into Dutch policy developments impacting the healthcare sector:
- Expansion of existing healthcare funding instruments with additional modules.
- Extra budget allocation for companies and private-sector workers in healthcare.
- Strengthening the link between health and trade, signaling strong alignment for the Combi Track approach in Kenya.
- Encouraging joint proposals between private sector, NGOs, and knowledge institutes.
Focus for 2025: scaling up & ensuring sustainability
Throughout the roundtable, one challenge stood out—companies face difficulties in scaling up their initiatives in Kenya. Discussions with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Dutch organizations in global health and development cooperation reinforced the need to address this issue.
To support businesses in overcoming these barriers, we are prioritizing:
- Deepening collaboration between Dutch and Kenyan stakeholders.
- Ensuring long-term financial stability.
- Structuring partnerships that are mutually beneficial and scalable.
Built on the foundation of 2024’s financing research, we aim to establish a strong post-pilot strategy that promotes effective implementation, financial resilience, and impactful healthcare solutions. Key discussion points included:
- Long-term financing outlook: Scenario development for Kenya and likelihood assessments.
- Market entry strategies: Open Phences is working on a report on how to access the Kenyan market.
- Scaling pilots: Transitioning from pilot projects to long-term adoption remains a challenge, with a “missing middle” in financing.
- Kenyan partnership involvement: Customizing products and solutions to fit the local context.
Upcoming activities & opportunities for engagement
To continue building momentum, we have planned several key activities throughout 2025:
- May 2025: A visit from the Netherlands to Kenya by Micha van Lin and Helena Pluimes to engage with key stakeholders related to the 2025 focus theme.
- September 2025: An incoming visit from Kenya to the Netherlands.
Interested in being part of this delegation? Get in touch!
- Q3/Q4 2025: An outgoing trade mission to Kenya, aligned with existing conferences or exhibitions.
Do you have suggestions for relevant events? Let us know!
Moving forward: translating policy into action
To ensure tangible results, we are focusing on:
- Identifying two or three key themes for targeted engagement (e.g., maternal health, primary healthcare, access to care).
- Strengthening decision-making frameworks for equipment procurement and service delivery.
- Aligning strategies with Kenyan county-level governance and investors to build long-term partnerships.
- Capitalizing on past learnings from projects like Makweni and Kisumu, ensuring continuity even as political landscapes evolve.
As we move forward, we invite Dutch and Kenyan stakeholders to join us in shaping a more resilient and scalable approach to collaboration. If you have insights, recommendations, or wish to participate in upcoming activities, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Together, let’s build a sustainable future for Dutch-Kenyan partnerships in Life Sciences & Health!
