The Ministry of Health has provided a status update on the Community Health Promoters (CHPs) initiative, revealing that as of January 10, 2025, a total of 8,525,305 households have been successfully registered in the Electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS). This marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to enhance healthcare access at the grassroots level.
The registered households currently account for 68% of the national target of 12.5 million households. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Kenya’s primary healthcare system, ensuring that every household has access to essential health services. By leveraging digital tools such as eCHIS, the Ministry aims to streamline data collection and improve the monitoring of healthcare service delivery across the country.
A key component of the initiative has been the training, equipping, and remuneration of Community Health Promoters (CHPs). The Ministry reports that so far, 106,504 CHPs have been trained and provided with the necessary tools to execute their roles effectively. These health promoters play a critical role in linking communities to healthcare services, conducting disease surveillance, and promoting preventive health measures.
The implementation of this initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The CHPs are tasked with conducting household visits, disseminating health information, and identifying individuals in need of specialized care. Through their efforts, early detection and treatment of diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases are expected to improve significantly.
Despite the progress made, challenges remain in reaching the remaining 3.97 million households to meet the target. Some of the hurdles include logistical constraints in remote areas, limited technological infrastructure, and the need for continuous training and support for CHPs. The Ministry of Health has reiterated its commitment to overcoming these challenges and ensuring full implementation of the program.
Looking ahead, the success of the CHPs initiative will depend on sustained government support, adequate funding, and collaboration with stakeholders, including county governments and development partners. The Ministry continues to urge citizens to cooperate with CHPs during household visits and embrace the benefits of digital health monitoring.
As the initiative progresses, Kenya moves closer to a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations have access to quality health services. The milestone achieved so far serves as a testament to the dedication of CHPs and the government’s resolve to transform healthcare delivery in the country.