The National Assembly has passed the Community Health Workers Bill, 2022 (National Assembly Bill No. 53 of 2022), marking a significant step toward formalizing the role of community health workers (CHWs) in Kenya.
The Bill, sponsored by Ndhiwa MP Hon. Martin Peters Owino, was endorsed by lawmakers on November 20, 2024.
The legislation seeks to establish a legal framework recognizing the critical contributions of CHWs by incorporating them into the government payroll.
These workers, who provide essential grassroots healthcare services, often operate without pay or formal recognition.
A key provision of the Bill is the establishment of the Community Health Workers Council of Kenya, tasked with regulating and standardizing the operations of CHWs.
The council will ensure professionalism and enhance the effectiveness of their work.
“Community health workers are invaluable to our healthcare system as they engage directly with communities, understand local languages, and address unique societal challenges,” stated Hon.
Owino. He emphasized that the framework will bring CHWs on par with other healthcare professionals while formalizing their operations.
The Bill received bipartisan support in Parliament. Seme MP, Hon. (Dr.) James Nyikal, lauded the global recognition of community-based healthcare, noting,
“Worldwide, community members play a significant role in healthcare delivery, from traditional midwives to health educators.
Strengthening and empowering CHWs is essential for improving health outcomes.”
Sotik MP, Hon. Francis Sigei, described CHWs as the “backbone of society,” commending their role in disease prevention and health promotion.
“Without their efforts, our healthcare system would falter,” he remarked.
Marsabit County MP, Hon. Naomi Waqo, emphasized the importance of regular training and a standardized curriculum for CHWs.
“We must ensure these health workers consistently receive requisite training to address emerging challenges,” she said, advocating for nationwide distribution of the Community Health Workers Council offices to enhance accessibility.
With the National Assembly’s approval, the Bill now advances to the Senate for further deliberation.
If enacted, it promises to transform the healthcare landscape by formally integrating CHWs into Kenya’s health system, enhancing their capacity to deliver quality care at the grassroots level.
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