Ministry of Health and Council of Governors Strengthen Collaboration on Healthcare Delivery
Efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, accelerate Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improve coordination between the National and County Governments formed the focus of discussions between Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale and the newly elected Council of Governors (CoG) Chairperson and Tharaka Nithi Governor, H.E. Muthomi Njuki.
The engagement addressed key priorities under Taifa Care, including strengthening Primary Healthcare, improving compliance with Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) and enhancing the welfare of Community Health Promoters (CHPs). HMIS compliance among Level 2 and 3 health facilities is nearing 100 per cent, while Level 4 and 5 facilities have attained 79 per cent. The meeting explored extending implementation timelines to enable the remaining facilities to meet the required standards, alongside ensuring timely and consistent remuneration for CHPs.
The discussions also reviewed the proposed Presbyopia Glasses Project, supported by the Livelihoods Impact Fund. The initiative is currently being implemented in seven counties, with two providing free spectacles. Both parties explored ways to advance the programme within the existing legal framework while safeguarding the interests of beneficiaries and implementing partners.
On public health security, the meeting reviewed measures to strengthen Ebola preparedness, particularly in border counties, through the provision of essential equipment, public awareness and enhanced disease surveillance capacity. The discussions further emphasised that free medical and surgical camps must remain free of charge and should not be billed to the Social Health Authority (SHA). Counties will be required to submit patient registers, identification details and scheduled camp dates to strengthen accountability and transparency.
The Cabinet Secretary and the CoG Chairperson reaffirmed their commitment to sustained intergovernmental engagement, addressing implementation challenges and strengthening coordination to improve access to quality, affordable and equitable healthcare services across the country.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, CoG Director of Health Ms. Khatra Ali, alongside Ministry directors, heads of divisions and members of the CoG Secretariat.