Kakamega – Governor Fernandes Barasa has pledged full backing for the more than 4,200 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Kakamega County, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to enhancing primary healthcare. The announcement came during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Lumakanda grounds in Lugari Sub-county.
According to a new release by Kenya News Agency, the governor took the occasion to launch the distribution of CHP kits designed to facilitate their work in primary healthcare. Barasa reiterated his administration’s resolve to improve the working conditions and terms for CHPs, while recognizing their pivotal role in the community.
“You are the real heroes and heroines,” the governor said, praising the CHPs for their selfless service and their willingness to serve the community without demanding high salaries or allowances. Barasa pointed out that the CHPs fill a significant void in the healthcare system, offering essential services such as assisting expectant mothers and linking patients to specialized care providers despite challenging working conditions.
In his address, the governor assured CHPs that measures would be taken to prioritize their welfare and facilitate their roles effectively. Among those measures are the timely provision of monthly stipends. He indicated that the newly distributed kits, which include items such as first aid boxes and clinical thermometers, would greatly assist the CHPs in their work.
Barasa also acknowledged President William Ruto for signing into law four bills aimed at advancing the Universal Health Coverage Plan. These laws, including the Social Health Insurance Act and the Primary Healthcare Act, will offer comprehensive support for various healthcare needs, including those served by CHPs.
Deputy Governor Ayub Savula noted that the new kits will enable CHPs to offer primary healthcare services to hundreds of Kakamega residents, eliminating the need for them to travel for basic medical care. Lugari lawmaker Nabii Nabwera commended both the county and national government for their efforts in the CHPS programme, highlighting its importance in the promotion of Primary Health Care.