A motion seeking the recruitment and remuneration of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) on a permanent and pensionable basis has been tabled in the National Assembly.
The motion, sponsored by Tharaka MP George Murugara, calls on the National Government to formulate and implement a policy framework to guide the recruitment, employment and remuneration of CHPs across the country.
Murugara said the move is aimed at ensuring Community Health Promoters are formally recognised as government employees and receive fair and consistent remuneration for the critical services they provide at the grassroots.
He noted that after successfully pushing for the regularisation and remuneration of Area Managers, a process that began in Parliament in February 2019, he was now committed to championing the welfare of Community Health Promoters.
“Today, I have filed a motion with Parliament for debate and eventual passage, resolving that the National Government formulates and guides policies on the employment and remuneration of CHPs in the Republic of Kenya,” said Murugara.
He expressed optimism that the motion will be debated in the House in the near future and urged fellow Members of Parliament to support its passage to enable the government to implement the proposed policy.
According to the motion, Community Health Promoters play a vital role in the delivery of primary healthcare by providing health education, disease prevention, early detection of illnesses, maternal and child health support, and community mobilisation.
They also serve as the first point of contact between households and the formal healthcare system.
Despite their significant contribution towards achieving Universal Health Coverage and improving access to healthcare, the motion notes that CHPs continue to work under inadequate facilitation and insufficient remuneration.
The proposal argues that proper facilitation, motivation and fair pay for Community Health Promoters would enhance service delivery, strengthen preventive healthcare and reduce pressure on health facilities.
If adopted, the motion will require the National Government to develop and implement a comprehensive policy framework to guide the recruitment and remuneration of Community Health Promoters on a permanent and pensionable basis nationwide.
by Dickson Mwiti
