The Kenyan government has committed to settling a Ksh 3.5 billion debt owed to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), marking a significant step toward achieving its universal healthcare agenda, Taifa Care. President William Ruto announced that county governments will pay Ksh 2 billion, while the National Government will contribute Ksh 1.5 billion to ensure public hospitals have sufficient medical supplies.
President Ruto emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that universal health coverage (UHC) cannot succeed without accessible medicines. Speaking in Wundanyi, Taita-Taveta County, during a development tour, he said:
“If we pay health insurance for citizens and hospitals do not have medicines, that money will go to waste. All of us must work together to ensure we have adequate medicine, equipment, and personnel because we want to succeed.”
Strengthening Healthcare and Infrastructure
The President urged citizens to register with the Social Health Authority for an enhanced medical insurance package that guarantees equitable access to healthcare. He highlighted the free registration process and encouraged proactive participation. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi supported the initiative, noting that Taifa Care seeks to bridge the healthcare gap between the rich and poor, preventing financial ruin from medical emergencies.
Taita-Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime commended the government for implementing health and infrastructure projects in the county. He noted that ongoing road projects would ease the movement of agricultural produce to markets, boosting the region’s economy.
Expanding Power Connectivity
President Ruto also inaugurated several development projects in Wundanyi, including the Wundanyi Sub-Station, which connects 9,000 households in Taita-Taveta County to electricity under the Last Mile Connectivity Project. Among the beneficiaries was 86-year-old Drisilla Jumwa, whose home was connected to power as part of this initiative.
Additionally, the President flagged off the Paranga Electrification Project and commissioned another connectivity initiative at Ziwani Settlement Scheme in Taveta Constituency. The government has allocated Ksh 1.1 billion for power expansion in the county for the current financial year.
Boosting Transport and Economic Activities
Infrastructure improvements were a focal point of the President’s tour. He launched the construction of the Cess-Rekeke-Lake Jipe Road, a project aimed at enhancing agricultural activities, fishing operations, and access to Lake Jipe and Tsavo West National Park. The road will also connect Taita-Taveta to Kwale County, unlocking the region’s economic potential.
In Taveta Constituency, the President announced that construction of the Taveta-Njukini-Ilasit road will begin in January 2024, enabling farmers to deliver their produce to markets more efficiently.
Localized Mineral Processing
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho highlighted the government’s plans to promote local processing of minerals. This approach aims to benefit communities directly, foster local businesses, and create jobs.
Commitment to Unity
Throughout the tour, President Ruto reiterated his dedication to fostering unity across political and ethnic lines. “We are committed to eradicating ethnicity and hatred. I will work with all leaders, regardless of political affiliation, to unite the country,” he said.
Empowering Taita-Taveta County
The President also laid the foundation stone for Lesesia Primary and Secondary Schools and addressed residents on other developmental goals. These initiatives, coupled with profit-sharing agreements on proceeds from Tsavo National Park, aim to empower local communities and boost economic opportunities in Taita-Taveta County.
This multifaceted development tour underscores the government’s commitment to improving healthcare, infrastructure, and economic prospects for Kenyans, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey toward a prosperous future.
