Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reassured Community Health Promoters (CHPs) that the government is committed to enhancing their working conditions and recognizing their vital role in the country’s healthcare system.
Speaking on Thursday at Irunduni, Tharaka Nithi County, where he hosted over 3,000 CHPs from Embu County, the Deputy President applauded the health promoters for their frontline role in delivering community-based healthcare and advancing the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
“We are deeply grateful for the work CHPs are doing. You are the foot soldiers of our flagship UHC project the infantry on the frontline in our mission for better healthcare,” said Kindiki.
He acknowledged the growing success of the Social Health Authority (SHA) registration, which has surpassed 26 million enrollees and is expected to reach 30 million by December.
He credited CHPs for their tireless efforts in driving this progress at the grassroots.
“SHA registration would not have succeeded without your dedication. You are our SHA heroes, and we are committed to improving your terms of service,” he stated.
In 2023, the national government, in partnership with all 47 county governments, recruited over 107,000 CHPs. Each was equipped with essential medical tools to facilitate early disease detection and referrals for advanced treatment.
The CHPs, stationed in all counties, receive a monthly stipend co-funded by both levels of government.
“The recruitment of CHPs is one of the most impactful healthcare reforms since independence,” Kindiki emphasized. “Thanks to your work, many Kenyans have had their health issues identified and treated early.”
He further praised CHPs for their home-based services, which include basic health screenings, dietary advice, referrals to hospitals, and regular follow-ups to ensure treatment adherence.
The Deputy President also took the opportunity to highlight ongoing development initiatives in Embu County, emphasizing the government’s commitment to infrastructure and service delivery.
He announced that several stalled roads have been revived, with construction underway. In addition, 12 modern markets are being developed to boost local commerce.
The government has also allocated Sh1.2 billion for last-mile electricity connections in the county, up from Sh576 million, following lobbying by local leaders.
“We are thankful to Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire and area MPs for championing the county’s development agenda. I am available 24/7 to support Embu’s progress,” Kindiki affirmed.
Governor Mbarire, who attended the event, lauded CHPs as the foundation upon which the SHA system is built.
“CHPs are the real ambassadors of SHA. Their work has transformed healthcare delivery at the grassroots,” she said.
The event underscored the central role CHPs play in realizing Kenya’s universal healthcare vision and the government’s intention to strengthen community-based health systems.
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