The Kiambu County government has launched a universal healthcare scheme aiming to benefit over 300,000 residents in the first phase.

The initiative dubbed “Kiambu Afya” would see beneficiaries enjoy an enhanced medical cover funded by the County Government and implemented by the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).

The launch of the programme at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu Town last Friday was witnessed by hundreds of residents and local leaders including Kiambu Woman Rep Anne Wamuratha, MPs Simon King’ara (Ruiru) and Njoroge Kururia (Gatundu North) and members of the County Assembly among other guests. Also present was NHIF Chairman Michael Kamau.

Governor Wamatangi expressed delight at fulfilling one of the crucial pledges of his gubernatorial campaign – the provision of quality and accessible healthcare for all.

“The launch of ‘Kiambu Afya’ represents a remarkable achievement in Kiambu County’s journey towards ensuring that every resident can access high-quality healthcare, regardless of their financial status,” said the Governor.

The programme, which commenced with the Universal Healthcare mass NHIF registration last December, has already registered 70,600 households, encompassing over 300,000 beneficiaries.

The County Government will pay NHIF premiums for all the registered households in the program that will be implemented in two phases.

Governor Wamatangi announced the immediate commencement of a second phase of registration targeting over 500,000 people by enrolling over 100,000 households by the close of the year.

Key features of the “Kiambu Afya” programme include access to inpatient services at government-accredited hospitals across the country and enhanced outpatient care at county facilities.

Additionally, beneficiaries will receive more comprehensive coverage, including treatment of chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes.

“The Last Expense Cover, offering Sh100,000 to families to cover funeral expenses, underscores the County’s commitment to supporting residents during their times of need,” said the Governor.

Wamatangi also announced that some 4,160 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in the county who are an integral part of the medical scheme will each be paid a monthly stipend of Sh5,000 each.