Kihika, Duale Ink Deal To Boost Primary Healthcare In Nakuru

By Suleiman Mbatiah

Residents of Nakuru could soon see improved services at dispensaries and health centres after the county signed a global health financing agreement aimed at strengthening primary healthcare systems.

The World Bank-supported Building Resilient and Responsive Health Systems project deal seeks to strengthen primary healthcare, improve access to essential health products and technologies, and enhance service quality nationwide

Governor Susan Kihika and Health Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale signed the Intergovernmental Participatory Agreement that will strengthen primary healthcare by improving facility operations and the quality of frontline medical services.

Under the programme, primary facilities will receive support to ensure consistent availability of essential medicines, technologies and stronger community health services across counties participating in the initiative.

Governor Kihika said the agreement reinforces the county’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare systems and ensuring residents receive reliable services at dispensaries and health centres closer to their homes.

She said the programme will also support healthcare workers to improve maternal, newborn and nutrition services, including antenatal and postnatal care in communities across the county.

“Our focus is to expand access to dependable health services and strengthen community health systems, which are critical foundations for achieving Universal Health Coverage,” she said.

CS Duale said the five-year programme, valued at KShs28 billion, will be implemented across all 47 counties to strengthen healthcare delivery at Levels One, Two and Three facilities.

“The project will enhance access to essential health products, reinforce community health systems and institutionalise quality improvement and performance monitoring across counties,” said Duale.

He said national and county governments share responsibility in strengthening healthcare systems and ensuring health services remain accessible and effective for communities across the country.

Through this agreement, the CS said the government was reinforcing intergovernmental cooperation, accountability and a unified commitment toward delivering Universal Health Coverage for all Kenyans.

Duale said targeted interventions will prioritise counties with high maternal and neonatal mortality burdens including Narok, Garissa, Turkana, Homa Bay, Kwale, Wajir, West Pokot, Mandera, Tana River and Kilifi.

“The project will strengthen the foundation of health services in Kenya, improve access and use of quality care, and support evidence-based decisions,” said Keith Hansen at an earlier meeting with the CS.