State boosts CHPs work with stipends, gadgets and training

Community Health Promoters (CHPs) are individuals from local communities serving as frontline healthcare providers, delivering essential preventive and promotive healthcare services, especially in underserved or marginalized areas.

As primary health care providers in the level one service of the government health system delivery,  CHPs are a crucial link between communities and formal health facilities.

Initially, they worked as volunteers, with little or no compensation. However, of late, there have been initiatives from the NGOs and government, both county and national, to formally recognize them and pay through stipends and equipment that aim to improve healthcare access across the country significantly.

On February 16, 2024, the government initiated a Sh3billion stipend payment program for the CHPs, in recognition of the vital role that CHPs play in advancing primary healthcare.  

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The CHPs educate the community on health issues, promote preventive practices such as immunization and family planning, identify potential health concerns and refer individuals to healthcare facilities.

They ensure all households have good WASH status which includes a functional latrine/toilet, hand washing facilities, refuse disposal area and access to safe drinking water.

The CHPs are chosen from the communities they serve, gaining trust and understanding of local needs. By bringing healthcare closer to homes, CHPs play a vital role in improving access to healthcare services for marginalized populations in rural areas. 

On November 7, 2023 the government provided smartphones to CHPs, making a significant milestone in its digital health initiative. This was meant to amplify the effectiveness of the community health programs.

Former Health CS Nakhumicha, presided over the distribution of the smartphones at both JM Kariuki Hospital in Nyandarua County and Nyahururu County Referral Hospital.

She was accompanied by Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha and Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu, reinforcing the initiative, which enhances CHPs accessibility and data-sharing capabilities.

Training

The initiative aligns with the broader objective of advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and President William Ruto endorsed it during Mashujaa Day Celebrations. Earlier in September, Ruto had officially launched 100,000 CHPs, with each equipped to serve 100 households with modern medical tools.

On June 4, 2024, the government deployed 107,831 CHPs across the 47 counties to provide preventive and promotive healthcare at the household level, to accelerate attainment of UHC.

The government, through State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, in partnership with the Global Fund and Amref Health Africa in Kenya launched a nationwide training program for CHPs.

The training equips CHPs with essential knowledge and skills, ensuring they meet the occasional standards and receive accreditation to effectively deliver basic healthcare services.

The program has been thoroughly reviewed and redesigned to address emerging health issues and specific challenges.Top of Form