Kenya unveils East Africa’s first AI-powered CT Scanner
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has officially commissioned East Africa’s first AI-powered 256-slice CT scanner at The Nairobi Hospital, marking a major leap forward in diagnostic technology and access to specialized healthcare in Kenya.
Speaking during the launch, CS Duale described the scanner as a symbol of the country’s commitment to revolutionize diagnostic medicine and improve health outcomes for all Kenyans.
“This moment signifies more than technological progress—it reflects our collective determination to revolutionize diagnostic medicine and improve health outcomes for all Kenyans.”
He noted that the scanner places The Nairobi Hospital and Kenya on the continental map for medical innovation.
“With its capacity for high-speed, low-dose, and ultra-precise imaging, this machine will elevate care across specialties: cardiology, pediatrics, trauma, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. It will help save lives by ensuring that patients receive the right diagnosis, at the right time, using the best available technology.” CS Duale said.
Alongside the commissioning, the Ministry of Health signed a Collaboration Framework with The Nairobi Hospital under the Social Health Authority (SHA), paving the way for thousands of financially vulnerable Kenyans to access subsidized cancer and kidney care services at the private facility.
Under the partnership, The Nairobi Hospital has committed to providing: fully subsidized oncology services, such as intra-cavitary brachytherapy, radio-iodine therapy, and CT planning.
Similarly, the hospital will offer conformal radiotherapy at a subsidized rate for patients with financial need based on the SHA Means Testing Instrument.
This as well as offer, Renal services, including full coverage for haemodialysis and subsidized kidney transplantation from pre-op to post-op care, ensuring no patient is left behind due to cost.
“This collaboration between the Ministry of Health, the Social Health Authority (SHA), and The Nairobi Hospital is a bold testament to that ethos. By working together, we ensure that eligible SHA patients many of whom face catastrophic financial risk can now access advanced oncology and renal care at subsidized, SHA-approved tariffs.” Noted Duale.
Duale emphasized the urgency of expanding local access to chronic disease care. “Over 11,000 Kenyans sought treatment abroad in 2024 alone, costing the country KSh 14.7 billion. We must bring care home,” he said.
The Health CS also addressed recent industrial unrest in the health sector, assuring that the 2025/26 budget includes provisions to settle arrears and implement return-to-work agreements.
He called on health professionals and union leaders to embrace dialogue and collaboration moving forward.