Government Engagement Model: Case of Kisumu Medical Education Trust

Abstract

Background: Navigating governmental bureaucracies to secure approvals, licenses, and partnerships often entails prolonged processes characterized by extensive documentation and delays. A key challenge for non-state actors is establishing a reliable and sustainable model of government engagement. The Kisumu Medical and Education Trust (KMET) has developed an innovative approach that demonstrates best practices in fostering constructive partnerships with government, particularly in Kenya’s health and education sectors. Methods: KMET employs a co-creation model that begins with alignment of its programs to government priorities (AWP, ADP, CIDP, sectoral plans), followed by inception meetings, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and establishment of joint technical committees. These teams oversee program design, training, implementation, monitoring, and reporting, with shared responsibilities between government and KMET. Results: KMET has operationalized 51 MoUs with both county and national government in Kenya, expanding from a single program in one county to eight programs across 35 counties. Its interventions such as Smart Start Initiative, Huduma Poa, and innovative technologies like UBT have been adopted by governments, WHO, and KEMSA, with KES 1.2 billion integrated into county CIDPs. Conclusion: KMET’s government engagement model illustrates that effective partnerships rely on non-confrontation, professionalism, apolitical policy, and mutual respect. The model is scalable and adaptable to other contexts facing similar bureaucratic barriers.