Counties to retain 15% of On-Source revenue to invest in local Healthcare

Oct 31, 2024 - 17:10

Oct 31, 2024 - 17:12

Kisumu,

Thursday, 31 October, 2024

McCreadie Andias

County Governments will now save 15% of their On-Source revenue to invest in local Healthcare systems, Says Health PS Harry Kimtai.

The move will help to boost the recently launched National Equipment Support Program which aims to strengthen healthcare across counties by replacing the Managed Equipment Services (MES) program.

During a meeting with county commissioners and CECM Health from from Kisii, Nyamira, Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Vihiga, Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, and Trans Nzoia counties, Kimtai confirmed all governors have signed agreements with the ministry, and contracts will be issued upon submission of county-specific equipment lists.

The National Equipment support programme is aimed at elevating public healthcare facilities to meet the standards of private and faith-based hospitals, ensuring medical equipment availability through national oversight.

“This initiative will benefit both county and national governments,” he stated.

The PS emphasized on the importance of collaboration within government levels to fast track the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA). This he reccomended the forming committees to support SHA registration.

Kimtai urged counties to take ownership og their Healthcare programmes.

Acknowledging potential resistance to change, he stressed a collaborative approach as counties adopt the Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) to reach the 50 million Kenyans in 90 days.

The PS noted the distribution of 5,000 devices to health facilities nationwide, with 65,000 more to follow. Murang’a County’s pilot program was highlighted as a successful model.

The government has directed for the formation of Committees at all levels to oversee registration and address local challenges.