July 12, 2025
In a transformative move set to reshape emergency healthcare in Kenya, the Ministry of Health has announced plans to roll out a digital, ride-hailing-style ambulance service that will allow Kenyans to request ambulances much like they would an Uber. The initiative, expected to be fully operational by October 2025, is part of the government’s broader Universal Health Coverage (UHC) reforms under the Social Health Insurance Act 2023.
A New Era of Emergency Healthcare
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale unveiled the initiative during a public health reform briefing, stating that the system will enable any Kenyan to summon the nearest government ambulance via a mobile app or toll-free line, completely free of charge.
“No Kenyan should die because they couldn’t access emergency medical transport,” Duale said. “By October, every citizen will be able to request an ambulance with the same ease they order a cab.”
The service will be fully funded by the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund (ECCIF), which is supported through contributions to the country’s new social health insurance scheme.
How It Will Work
Much like popular ride-hailing services such as Uber or Bolt, the new system will:
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Use GPS technology to locate the nearest available ambulance
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Dispatch the vehicle to the emergency scene in real-time
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Transport the patient to the nearest equipped health facility—free of charge
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Be accessible through a mobile app and call-in options, catering to both smartphone and non-smartphone users
The Ministry of Health is working in partnership with various tech developers and logistics experts to ensure the platform is user-friendly, reliable, and responsive.
Addressing the Current Crisis
Currently, Kenya’s ambulance response system is fragmented, often inaccessible to ordinary citizens, and typically available only through private hospitals or NGOs at a cost many cannot afford. The lack of centralized coordination and insufficient funding have left many communities vulnerable during emergencies.
With this reform, the government aims to bridge those gaps, starting with 47 counties and expanding into remote areas over time.
Lessons from the Private Sector
Kenya has already seen promising results from private emergency tech platforms such as Flare and AURA, which have pioneered app-based ambulance dispatch systems in Nairobi and other urban areas. Flare, for example, reportedly reduced emergency response times from over two hours to just 21 minutes.
These systems have proven that the model works—and now the government wants to scale it nationally.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the promise of this new model, experts have flagged several potential challenges:
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Infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural areas with poor road networks and limited internet connectivity
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Shortage of ambulances and trained emergency personnel to meet nationwide demand
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Data and system integration, especially with existing health facilities and emergency hotlines
However, the government maintains that these challenges are being addressed, with increased investment in digital infrastructure, ambulance procurement, and medical personnel training already underway.
A Step Toward Health Equity
The “Uber for ambulances” initiative is part of a larger health reform strategy aimed at ensuring equity, access, and dignity in healthcare delivery for all Kenyans, regardless of income or geography.
“This isn’t just about speed—it’s about dignity,” said CS Duale. “Every Kenyan deserves timely and professional medical care when their life is on the line.”
What’s Next?
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App and system testing is underway in select counties
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Training and recruitment of drivers, medics, and dispatchers is ongoing
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Public sensitization campaigns will begin in August to ensure citizens understand how to access the service
If successful, Kenya could become a continental leader in digital emergency health services, showcasing how innovation can save lives and reduce healthcare inequality.
