Nairobi: More than 500 Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) in Kisumu County have received Sh1.6 million from Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda to support their welfare and facilitate their work in delivering healthcare services at the grassroots. Prof. Ojienda noted that the volunteers have been working without a regular salary, and the support will motivate and enable them to continue providing quality healthcare services.
According to Kenya News Agency, the donation included Sh500,000 for the volunteers’ welfare and another Sh1.1 million to cater to their transport expenses. Speaking during a consultative meeting with the leadership of CHVs at his residence in God Abuoro, Muhoroni Sub-county, Prof. Ojienda acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the CHVs to the health and well-being of communities.
Prof. Ojienda underscored the crucial role played by the CHVs in supporting healthcare initiatives at the grassroots level. He stated that the CHVs remain an indispensable link between communities and the formal healthcare system, and their dedication and service deserve recognition and meaningful support.
The senator emphasized that investing in CHVs would strengthen primary healthcare services and improve the county’s overall health system. Prof. Ojienda also pledged to push for the enactment of the Community Health Volunteers Bill, which would provide CHVs with formal recognition, better working conditions, and proper remuneration.
Highlighting the plight of the community health providers, Prof. Ojienda regretted they have long been neglected by many county governments, with some receiving a monthly allowance of only Sh2,500, which is often delayed. He stated the need for legislation that compels counties to provide proper remuneration to community health providers so they can continue offering essential services.
Furthermore, Prof. Ojienda announced that in recognition of their service, CHVs would be given priority in programs spearheaded by his office, including the Mbegu Mashinani agricultural initiative and the Watoto Wasome education program.
