This archive report was first published on 28 November 2019.
On September 3, 2018, Deputy President William Ruto attended the first Mbuzi Moja Afya Bora goat auction in Kajiado, marking the beginning of the initiative.
The second phase of the initiative, launched by Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, aims to provide NHIF medical covers to vulnerable families. To achieve this, the county government will hold a public auction of 4,000 goats and sheep in Kajiado town, with the proceeds financing the health program.
Under the initiative, families in rural areas are required to offer a goat, which is then sold by the county government. Those in urban areas who do not have goats pay Sh 3,000 to the NHIF, and the county government pays the balance of Sh 3,000 for them.
As of yesterday, Health CEC Esther Somoire confirmed that 4,200 households had registered for the program, with the number expected to rise to 5,000 after the goat auction. During the first auction, 3,550 residents were enrolled and have been able to access healthcare services at Kajiado Hospital, which are accredited by NHIF.
"We are happy that more families continue to adopt this medical cover," said Ms Somoire. "It is taking root in both rural and urban areas because 90 per cent of our hospitals are accredited and therefore offer the services required."
She added that the NHIF card is now being used for almost all illnesses, including dialysis, MRIs, and emergencies that require oxygen support. "Last week, we supplied our hospitals with oxygen to enable them handle emergencies. We are glad as we continue to improve health services, such services are accessible to local residents through the NHIF card," said the CEC.
The goat auction will be held at the Kajiado Demonstration Farm, a few kilometers from Kajiado town, with a goat expected to sell at Sh 6,000.
