Health Cabinet Secretary nominee Debra Barasa addressed the National Assembly Committee on Appointments about why she did not renew her medical practice license over the past four years.
During her vetting, Barasa clarified that she transitioned to a role with the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2020, which did not necessitate a practicing license. As the WHO operates as an independent international organization under the UN, it is not affiliated with any member state’s licensing requirements.
“I am a qualified doctor with registration number A6275 and maintained my clinical practice license from 2007 to 2020. Upon joining the WHO, my role was international and did not require a practicing license,” Barasa explained.
She detailed that, as an international civil servant, she provided services across 22 countries in East and Southern Africa and supported 47 member states in the Afro region, offering strategic direction and technical advice.
Barasa stated that she renewed her license following her nomination by President William Ruto, out of respect and because she would be returning to the Kenyan medical environment as a Cabinet Secretary. She noted that the renewal was also in keeping with her role within the medical field.
Concerns about the status of her practicing license were raised following her Cabinet nomination.
