This archive report was first published on 17 May 2020.
On May 14, 2020, Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo signed into law two Bills that will significantly improve health infrastructure and services in the county. The County Health Facilities Improvement Fund Bill 2019 and the County Health Services Bill 2019 were ratified by the County Assembly and provide the legal framework for streamlining the county's health system to international standards.
According to Governor Ottichilo, the two laws will enable his administration to manage the health sector through a proper legal framework, replacing the current haphazard manner in which the health system has been run. The Health Facilities Improvement Fund Act gives the county administration express authority to source for development funds, both internal and externally, to improve infrastructure in all health facilities in the County.
The Health Services Act will ensure the delivery of quality health services by all the health facilities. Governor Ottichilo noted that the signing into law of the two Bills comes at a time when the country is focused on improving healthcare as occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic. He also appealed for development aid from local and international donors, assuring them of prudent management of the resources.
County Assembly Speaker Hasna Mudeizi reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to working closely with the executive to improve service delivery to the residents. She emphasized that the two Acts will ensure locals enjoy accessible, affordable, and high-quality health services.
