Members of the National Assembly have intensified their call for legal recognition and compensation for Community Health Workers (CHWs) through a new legislative proposal.
The Community Health Workers Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 53 of 2022, was introduced by Ndhiwa MP, Hon. Martin Peters Owino, with the goal of establishing a legal framework to support community health services and extend government payroll to include these crucial health providers, who currently serve as unpaid volunteers.
The Bill also seeks to form the Community Health Workers Council of Kenya, a regulatory body aimed at overseeing the work and welfare of CHWs.
Speaking in support of the Bill, Hon. Owino emphasized the critical role played by CHWs, particularly in rural and marginalized areas where healthcare is often inaccessible.
He pointed out that CHWs are familiar with the local communities, their challenges, and cultural dynamics, making them vital to addressing healthcare needs at the grassroots level.
“Community Health Workers are the direct link to the community. They know the households, the people, and the language, and are essential in overcoming local health challenges,” stated Hon. Owino. “We need a framework that recognizes them and integrates them into the government workforce, just like other professionals.”
Seconding the Bill, Seme MP, Hon. (Dr.) James Nyikal, highlighted the global recognition of the importance of community-based health workers, drawing comparisons to traditional midwives who have served communities for generations.
“It is essential that we strengthen and equip these workers,” said Hon. Nyikal. “Illness starts at home, and CHWs are key to addressing the social determinants of health.”
Sotik MP, Hon. Francis Sigei, referred to CHWs as “Health Warriors,” commending their role in maintaining the nation’s health. “Without them, we would struggle to combat diseases in our communities,” he remarked.
Additionally, Marsabit County MP, Hon. Naomi Waqo, urged the government to introduce regular training programs for CHWs, noting that their qualifications, outlined in the Bill, must be continually updated to meet evolving health challenges.
She also advocated for the establishment of the CHWs Council’s offices across the country to ensure nationwide service accessibility.
The Bill has garnered broad support within Parliament, with lawmakers emphasizing the urgent need to address the longstanding issue of unpaid CHWs and enhance the healthcare system’s reach, especially in rural areas.
