Lamu, Kenya — Governor Issa Timamy of Lamu County has given his assent to two healthcare bills designed to expand Universal Healthcare services to the residents of Lamu. The two bills are the Lamu County Facility Improvement Financing Act and the Lamu County Health Services and Community Health Act 2023. These new laws are set to enhance the ongoing Afya Mashinani initiative, also known as Timamy Care.

According to the Kenya News Agency, Governor Issa Timamy spoke at the signing ceremony at Lamu County Headquarters, stating that the legislation will facilitate the retention of revenue generated by health facilities in the county. “Generated revenue from NHIF and cash collections from our health facilities will be utilized to replenish supplies such as medicine and hospital commodities,” Timamy said.

The governor also noted that the Afya Mashinani Initiative, under the county government, has successfully registered around 20,000 households to benefit from the Universal Healthcare Coverage (UHC) program. Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, CEC in charge of Health Services, echoed the governor’s remarks, saying, “It is our aim as Lamu County to ensure that healthcare coverage reaches all its residents regardless of where they may be.”

The new laws are aligned with the government’s broader agenda of ensuring equitable healthcare services even in the most remote areas. “By addressing healthcare disparities and empowering communities through education and outreach, the firm continues to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in Kenya,” Bahjaj added.

Lamu County Assembly Majority Leader Bwana Bwana also expressed support for the county’s initiatives, stating that the assembly will seek funding to facilitate efficient healthcare service delivery throughout the county. The Lamu County Government has earmarked at least Sh150 million for healthcare development in the 2023-2024 financial year.