October 18, 2023
Governor Amos Nyaribo today released 1,379 testing kits to Community Health Promoters in the County.
The digital kits will be used to diagnose primary ailments at community level.
While releasing the kits at Nyamira’s Uhuru garden, Governor Nyaribo said his administration was committed to strengthen the responsiveness of the county health system in the County.
Mr Nyaribo said his political manifesto underscores Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as a pillar of ensuring that people have access to the health care without enduring financial hardships.
"Supporting health is a foundational investment in human capital and economic growth," said Nyaribo.
He noted that access to affordable quality primary healthcare is the cornerstone of UHC which forms part of his manifesto.
Mr Nyaribo said provision of affordable, quality health services to the community, especially to women, children, adolescents and those affected by mental health issues, represents a long-term investment in human capital in his plan.
"Universal Health Care is a fundamental human right, which as leaders, we endeavor to make a reality. I pledge to intensify our health promotion and preventive initiatives," he said.
He added: "We firmly believe in the fundamental premise of Primary Health Care (PHC) that every individual, regardless of their location, has the right to achieve the highest attainable level of health”.
Further, the Governor disclosed that contracts of 250 UHC staff members have been renewed.
"I have also employed over 100 health care workers in order to address the issue of human resource, which is a key component in UHC," the Governor said.
In collaboration with the local implementing partner, (AMREF), the Governor said, the County has now realized the first Primary Care Network ,PCN, in Masaba sub-county.
Keroka sub county hospital will serve as the hub ( referral point) while Gesima, Esani and Magombo Health Centres will serve as the Sub Hubs, receiving referrals from the surrounding facilities and community unit through the community health promoters ( CHPs).
"This is a clear demonstration that I need everyone to access standard health service", he said.
According to the Governor, there is a structure consisting of 1,440 dedicated Community Health Promotes (CHPs), 131 Community Health Units (CHUs), and 86 Community Health Assistants/Officers (CHAs/CHOs).
All have undergone an extensive training, including technical modules such as integrated community case management, community case management for malaria, hypertension, household air pollution, HIV/AIDS, and TB.
The Governor promised to launch electronic Community Health Information Systems this October.
"This technology will significantly enhance our capabilities in health planning and management," he said.
According to the Governor, all CHP's have been covered by NHIF.
The CHP's electronic kits covers the five Sub-counties - Nyamira South, Manga, Nyamira North, Borabu and Masaba.
The function was also graced by West Mugirango MP Steve Mogaka, the County Assembly Majority leader Abel Mose, CECMs, community leaders and members of the public.
(By Governor’s Press Services)