Dr. Debra Mulongo Barasa will be the next Cabinet Secretary for Health, should her vetting be a success.
Barasa was the second Cabinet nominee to be vetted on Thursday, where she explained to the National Assembly’s Appointment Committee why she is fit for the position.
At the same time, she gave a glimpse of her personal life, revealing that she has a net worth of Kshs455 million.
“My net worth is a combination of mine and my husband and it is Ksh455,845,320,” she said.
Aside from that, she revealed that she has more than 18 years of experience in medical and public health.
She went on to state that she is a mother of four children, as well as a twin.
“I have adverse experience in terms of policy advice, strategic direction, technical advice and clinical practice,” she noted, adding that she has experience in both public and private sectors.
She currently works at World Health Organization as an expert in Infectious diseases.
Once approved to join cabinet, Barasa have vowed to include Linda Mama programme in the Social Health Insurance Fund.
“I am a beneficiary of Linda Mama and my daughter is a beneficiary of Linda Mama. I will ensure it is incorporated if SHIF is rolled out,” she said.
“During the transition period, at times such activities fall through the cracks, funds have been allocated so we need to have a transition plan to ensure the Linda Mama is always there; this is an area we will look to and ensure all mothers and children are covered,” she added.
At the same time, she said she would engage in dialogue with stakeholders to find a lasting solution for doctors’ strike.
