Health

State allocates Sh3b to compensate Community Health Promoters

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha distributes phones to Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Isiolo County in this file picture. (Photo: Handout)

By Amina Wako | Saturday, February 17, 2024

According to the Ministry of Health, since their deployment four months ago, the CHPs have reached 2.7 million households, impacting the lives of at least 13.5 million Kenyans.

The state has budgeted Sh3 billion to compensate community health promoters. The distribution of funding is a direct result of the 107,000 CHPs' dedication and service in implementing the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.

Speaking at his official residence in Karen, Nairobi, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua lauded the CHPs as "unsung heroes" and recognised their contribution to the success of the UHC.

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He expressed gratitude to the CHPs, stating, "This (the Kenya Kwanza administration) is the first administration to address your plight and recognise you. We appreciate your sacrifice and commitment to helping the people."

The DP highlighted the significance of the CHPs' work, stating, "The Community Health Promoters are part and parcel of Kenyan communities; they are everywhere, offering critical services." He emphasised that the national government would contribute 50 per cent of the stipend, with the other half covered by county governments.

Each promoter is charged with serving 100 homes and is provided with basic equipment for household health screening.

Each CHP has been provided with a smartphone and special kits, featuring an electronic community health information system (E-CHS), to collect health data from communities.

According to the Ministry of Health, since their deployment four months ago, the CHPs have reached 2.7 million households, impacting the lives of at least 13.5 million Kenyans.

The programme aims to prevent Kenyans from sinking into poverty due to hospital bills by providing personalised health services to the population.

Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, the World Health Organisation Representative, praised the Kenyan government for hiring and compensating the community health promoters.

He emphasised that the payment ensures the sustainability of the programme, acknowledging the importance of community health workers in advancing healthcare objectives.