Murang’a County Governor Irungu Kang’ata’s healthcare initiative, Kang’ata Care, has earned international acclaim, clinching the Gold Medal at the 2024 African Association for Public Administration and Management (AAPAM) Innovative Management Awards. The award, announced on Thursday, marks a historic moment for Kenya, as it is the first time a Kenyan programme has secured the top prize in these prestigious awards.
The Kang’ata Care programme was lauded for its transformative approach to healthcare, addressing long-standing challenges of affordability and accessibility in Murang’a County. Serving over 160,000 individuals, the initiative has redefined healthcare for vulnerable populations by delivering a comprehensive package of services that goes beyond basic healthcare.
Redefining Public Healthcare
The success of Kang’ata Care lies in its innovative structure, offering free inpatient and outpatient services, dental and optical care, and financial support for overseas treatment. In addition to medical services, the programme provides socio-economic benefits to ease the burden on families.
These benefits include Ksh.100,000 for family support in the event of the principal member’s death, Ksh.25,000 towards secondary school fees for dependents, and Ksh.10,000 for marriage or childbirth-related expenses. By integrating healthcare with financial relief measures, Kang’ata Care addresses the broader social determinants of health, setting a benchmark for public service delivery.
Governor Kang’ata expressed his pride in the team behind the initiative, emphasizing their dedication and innovation in healthcare delivery. “This recognition underscores our commitment to making healthcare affordable, accessible, and transformative for the people of Murang’a County,” he said during the awards ceremony.
A Historic Win for Kenya
The achievement is particularly significant as it positions Kenya as a leader in innovative public service delivery on the African continent. Previous Kenyan programmes, such as the Huduma Center (2nd place in 2022) and eCitizen (4th place in 2017), have received accolades at the AAPAM awards. However, Kang’ata Care stands out as the first Kenyan initiative to secure the Gold Medal, highlighting its exceptional impact and replicable model.
Public Service Principal Secretary Amos Gathecha acknowledged the importance of this milestone for Kenya. “This award has not only elevated Kenya’s profile but also provided a model for other nations to emulate in the pursuit of universal healthcare,” he noted.
The AAPAM Innovative Management Awards celebrate excellence in public administration and governance across Africa. Winning the top honor affirms Kang’ata Care’s role as a game-changer in achieving universal healthcare goals.
Transforming Lives in Murang’a
Since its inception, Kang’ata Care has reached thousands of families in Murang’a, offering a lifeline to those who previously struggled to access healthcare. By bridging the gap between healthcare providers and underserved populations, the programme has demonstrated the power of targeted public initiatives to transform lives.
Beneficiaries of the programme have spoken of the relief it has brought to their families. For some, the free medical services have meant the difference between life and death, while others have found hope in the financial support provided for education and family emergencies.
A Model for Africa
As Kenya celebrates this victory, the Kang’ata Care programme serves as a beacon of possibility for other counties and nations striving to achieve similar healthcare goals. With its comprehensive approach and impactful outcomes, the initiative underscores the importance of innovation in public administration.
Governor Kang’ata’s vision and commitment to inclusive development have propelled Murang’a County to the forefront of public healthcare reform. The Gold Medal award is not just a win for Murang’a but a testament to Kenya’s potential to lead Africa in transformative governance.
The success of Kang’ata Care will likely inspire other regions to adopt innovative solutions tailored to their communities, paving the way for a healthier and more equitable future across the continent.
