MACHAKOS, Kenya – Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has made a strong appeal to the national government, insisting that the planned devolution of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff to counties must be accompanied by adequate funding.
Speaking during celebrations to mark Nurses Week in Machakos, Governor Wavinya criticised the government’s approach of transferring UHC personnel without allocating the necessary financial resources.
“It’s important we speak the truth. If you want to devolve UHC staff, then you must also devolve the funds. You can’t tell us their contracts are ending in March next year and expect counties to absorb them amid the current economic hardships,” said Governor Wavinya.
Kenya has been actively pursuing UHC as part of its health agenda, with initial steps taken as early as 1994 to develop a system for universal health coverage. A pilot UHC program was launched in 2018 to provide accessible, quality healthcare at a low cost.
This initiative aligns with broader national development goals, including the ‘Big Four Agenda,’ demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving the overall health status of Kenyans.
What Governor Wavinya thinks about nurses
Meanwhile, the governor used the occasion to express deep appreciation for nurses, praising their unwavering dedication to saving lives, especially during disease outbreaks and in underserved areas.
“In times of crisis, it’s our nurses who rise to the occasion. We do not take you for granted. I truly appreciate the incredible work you do, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas,” she said.
Governor Wavinya took this opportunity to explain the achievements she has made in the health sector for the time she has been in office, including improving health infrastructure and empowering the health workforce.
The county boss also extended her gratitude to nurses, acknowledging their critical roles not just as educators, but also as counsellors, leaders, and community role models.
Why counties should be financially equipped
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi echoed the governor’s sentiments, lamenting the persistent delays in disbursement of county funds and increased deductions from civil servants’ payslips.
He urged the national government to ensure counties are financially equipped before handing over the responsibility of UHC staff.
Joseph Nguasi, chairperson of the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives, commended Governor Wavinya for her consistent support of the nursing profession.
“You have the best nursing team, and I’m glad you understand the situation on the ground. Thank you for always standing with nurses,” said Nguasi.
This year’s Nurses Week was celebrated under the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future — Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies.”
