This archive report was first published on 4 August 2020.
On August 4, 2020, First Lady Margaret Kenyatta acknowledged the crucial role community health workers play in combating the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking during the virtual graduation of the first cohort of 5,100 community health volunteers, the First Lady emphasized the importance of community education on health matters, stating that it can save lives.
“I applaud your selfless commitment to your work and your courage and compassion for people and for the community. I acknowledge the sacrifice you give of your time towards the demanding role of being community health workers,” the First Lady told community health volunteers.
The training, sponsored by the Beyond Zero initiative at a cost of Kshs 4.5 million, was delivered virtually by the African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) through a digital learning platform called “Leap mhealth.”
First Lady Kenyatta expressed optimism that the training will ramp up the community health volunteers’ contribution to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Through the COVID-19 curriculum and guide developed by the Ministry of Health, you are now empowered and equipped with knowledge, skills and competence to protect yourselves, your families and the community,” the First Lady told the community health workers.
She also spoke against the stigmatization of individuals and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that those affected should be offered compassion and comfort instead of discrimination.
