Elderly citizens feted with health insurance cards during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kajiado
By Christine.Musa, October 20, 2023
Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kajiado County placed a strong emphasis on the pressing need to enhance healthcare services in rural villages, particularly for the elderly population who are considered the most vulnerable.
Governor Joseph Ole Lenku and County Commissioner Jude Wesonga led the celebrations, which took place in Mashuuru, Kajiado East. The event predominantly revolved around health issues and was conveyed through traditional songs and dance performances filled with vibrancy and color.
The County Ministry of Health highlighted the significant challenge of deteriorating health among local residents in rural villages, which has been impeding progress towards achieving universal healthcare.
In response, the County government of Kajiado made the decision to honour 2,000 vulnerable elderly men and women, referred to as “Mashujaa,” by providing them with NHIF (National Hospital Insurance Fund) cards. This initiative is aimed at facilitating their access to essential healthcare services.
Community health promoters were also encouraged to focus on educating local residents about the importance of seeking medical services in a timely manner and participating in wellness clinics.
Common undiagnosed lifestyle diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, were cited as significant health concerns among the elderly population. Additionally, addressing a lack of education on proper family planning and malnutrition was identified as a key focus area for the community health promoters.
In a move to bolster these efforts, the 2,056 health promoters were equipped with basic equipment and provided with identification cards. The County also announced its intention to begin providing a monthly stipend of Ksh 5,000 to these volunteers.
“The health sector has made tremendous improvements over time. We continue to identify gaps that affect health, especially among the vulnerable in society. We have recognized that the elderly population continues to struggle with access to healthcare services,” Alex Kilowua, the County Executive Committee member in charge of health said.
According to county health statistics, 400,000 people have already registered with NHIF.
Furthermore, a consignment of drugs was launched, with plans in place to distribute these medicines to health centres in rural areas.
Governor Joseph Ole Lenku emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to celebrating national heroes, underscoring the importance of empowering those less fortunate who fought for the freedom enjoyed by the nation today.
“As a country, we need a holistic approach to celebrating our heroes. Empowering the least fortunate who fought for the freedom we are enjoying today should be a priority. Our elders deserve recognition and moral support, health is key,” Lenku said.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Members of Parliament Kakuta Maimai (Kajiado East) and Samuel Parashina (Kajiado South), Senator Seki Kanar, Nominated Senator Peris Tobiko, and several Members of County Assemblies.