KAKAMEGA LAUNCHES HEALTH SERVICES FUND

The Governor of Kakamega County H.E FCPA Fernandes Barasa on Wednesday presided over the launch of Kakamega County Health Facilities Fund; a fund aimed at transforming healthcare delivery and improving the well-being of residents seeking medical services.

In his speech, the Governor said the Fund will introduce autonomy in healthcare facilities in order to revolutionize the County’s healthcare system, empower healthcare providers while enhancing the quality of care provided to the residents.

Kakamega County is among the first few counties to implement a Health Services Act which enables the County Health Department to ring-fence its resources for improved service delivery.

The Governor further announced that starting July 1st 2023, health facilities in the County are expected to retain the collections from the revenue raised and fund their operations.

The County Health Promoters, the County boss announced, will be well remunerated and equipped with modern kits and appropriate equipment to ensure proper data collection.

To increase utilization of services such as Immunization services, ANC clinics and skilled deliveries in the County’s health facilities, Governor Barasa said his administration has allocated Ksh 110,000,000 for the Imarisha Afya Ya Mama na Mtoto program, also known as “Barasa-Care”.

Deputy Governor H.E Ayub Savula on his part lauded the Government for cracking the whip on rogue individuals at health parastatals such as NHIF and KEMSA calling for stun measures against those found culpable.

Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai who represented Health Cabinet Secretary Dr Susan Nakhumicha agreed that health functions have been facing challenges but asked Counties to support ongoing reforms in the sector.

First Lady H.E Prof Janet Kassily Barasa, Regional Director Thinkwell, East and Southern Africa Dr Anne Musuva and the USAID Boresha Jamii Chief Of Party Dr Solomon Orero among other senior Government Officers and Partners were present.