This archive report was first published on 11 May 2020.
On May 11, 2020, a bill seeking to recognize and regulate community health services in Kenya was introduced in the House.
The Community Health Services Bill, sponsored by nominated Senator Agnes Zani, aims to provide a legal regime for the recognition of community health services and their regulation.
According to Dr. Zani, community health services are instrumental in achieving preventive healthcare and ensuring access to health services in compliance with Article 43 of the Constitution.
The bill proposes that counties recruit community health workers, pay them allowances, and provide necessary protective gear.
Community health workers are currently not recognized by law and mainly provide volunteer services.
The bill provides a legal basis for the effective delivery of integrated, comprehensive, and quality community health services at the county level.
It also provides a framework for coordinated implementation of policies and standards formulated by the national and county governments.
