Jayesh Saini: The Driving Force Behind Kenya’s Healthcare Transformation
In many parts of Africa, reliable healthcare remains a distant dream for millions. Kenya, like many countries on the continent, has long grappled with issues such as a shortage of medical personnel, limited facilities, and inequitable access to quality care. But amidst these challenges, visionary leaders are emerging — and Jayesh Saini, the founder and chairman of Lifecare Group, is leading the charge.
Through his work with Lifecare Hospitals and Bliss Healthcare, Saini has revolutionized access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, bringing hope and healing to underserved communities across Kenya and beyond.
Leadership With Purpose: Recognized for Impact
In 2022, Jayesh Saini was awarded “Iconic Business Leader of the Year” by Prime Insights — a fitting recognition of his efforts to bridge Kenya’s healthcare gaps. His mission aligns closely with Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) strategy, as outlined by President William Ruto, aiming to provide equitable, accessible healthcare for all citizens.
Saini’s hospital network spans both urban and rural areas, creating a web of care that addresses the health needs of patients from all backgrounds, including civil servants, police officers, teachers, and workers in the private sector.
A Journey Rooted in Legacy and Compassion
Saini’s inspiration came from his father, Dr. Umesh Saini, a visionary doctor who moved to Kenya with a dream of transforming healthcare. Dr. Saini founded Nairobi West Hospital in the 1980s, which has grown into a 400-bed center of excellence. Following in his father’s footsteps, Jayesh Saini — together with his wife, Dr. Shalya Saini — established Lifecare Hospitals in 2017 to expand access to inpatient care across Kenya and East Africa.
Breaking Barriers: Bringing Care Closer to Communities
Jayesh Saini witnessed firsthand how rural patients often had to travel great distances to access treatment in Nairobi — a journey that sometimes proved fatal. Determined to solve this issue, he invested in localized healthcare delivery, minimizing travel time and maximizing access.
Bliss Healthcare, one of his earliest ventures, now stands as Kenya’s largest outpatient network. Alongside it, Medicross Limited and Lifecare Hospitals provide comprehensive medical services — from primary care to advanced inpatient treatments.
These facilities serve thousands of patients from key institutions like:
- Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)
- Teachers Service Commission (TSC)
- National Police Service (NPS)
- Civil Servants
- Leading insurers and corporate clients
A Standard of Excellence in Every Facility
Lifecare Hospitals follow a strict Quality Management Policy, ensuring that every location provides consistent, high-standard care. Most facilities cater to lower-income communities, prioritizing affordability without compromising on quality.
From advanced imaging to surgical care, Lifecare offers a full range of services supported by skilled staff and the latest technology.
Embracing Innovation: Tech-Driven and Transparent
Under Saini’s leadership, Lifecare and Bliss have become pioneers in health tech adoption:
- Telemedicine platforms serve over 10,000 remote patients monthly
- AI-powered fraud detection tools flag billing anomalies, exaggerated diagnoses, and insurance misuse
- Real-time monitoring protects healthcare funds and builds trust with partners and patients
This commitment to transparency and efficiency reflects Saini’s goal of maintaining ethical healthcare systems that are both sustainable and patient-centered.
Expanding Lifecare’s Reach Across East Africa
Lifecare Hospitals currently operate in Bungoma, Meru, Migori, and Kikuyu. By 2025, the group plans to:
- Increase bed capacity from 650 to 2,600+
- Open six new hospitals in Kenya
- Establish facilities in Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia
- Introduce super-specialty clinics in oncology, cardiology, nephrology, orthopedics, and more
By 2027, Lifecare’s network is projected to exceed 4,100 beds, becoming a major force in East Africa’s healthcare landscape.
Awards, Recognition, and Public Trust
- Quality Healthcare Kenya Award (2021) for innovation
- “Lifetime Achievement Award (NRI)” recognizing contributions to affordable care in Africa
- Partnerships with leading health insurers, government programs, and corporates
Saini’s network is now seen as a model of how private healthcare can effectively serve public needs.
Empowering the Healthcare Workforce
Saini knows that healthcare is only as strong as the people behind it. Currently:
- Lifecare employs over 4,000 staff
- Bliss Healthcare runs 65 clinics across 37 counties
- The group treats over 80,000 patients monthly
- Each center is equipped with CT scans, X-rays, dental units, ultrasound, and eye care technology
By 2027, the combined workforce is expected to surpass 10,000 professionals. Lifecare invests in staff through continuous training, incentives, and growth opportunities.
Research, Wellness & Chronic Disease Management
Lifecare and Bliss also run a Chronic Disease Management Program supporting 30,000+ patients monthly. Their focus on long-term care for conditions like diabetes and hypertension showcases their commitment to managing non-communicable diseases.
Giving Back: Education, Orphans, and CSR
Through Lifecare Foundation, Jayesh Saini ensures his organizations serve more than just medical needs. Key social impact efforts include:
- 100 free medical camps annually
- Sponsorship for over 200 orphans, including children of TSC, NPS, and civil servants
- COVID-19 support initiatives for orphaned children
- Donations to orphanages and educational institutions
Saini’s belief in health and education as human rights fuels his ongoing investment in community development.
A Partner in Kenya’s Economic and Health Progress
Jayesh Saini sees healthcare as a driver of economic growth, not just a service. His investments create jobs, streamline public health delivery, and support Kenya’s ICT-driven Universal Health Coverage goals, in line with President Ruto’s agenda.
He stresses the need for public-private collaboration to ensure quality healthcare for every Kenyan, regardless of income.
“Challenges are real motivators. Stay committed to the dream and pursue it — no matter the obstacle.” — Jayesh Saini
