By Monica Nashon
National and Kisii County leaders have urged Kenyans to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA), citing low enrolment levels in some regions.
They also outlined ongoing infrastructure, healthcare and digital development projects aimed at improving livelihoods.
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Speaking during a fundraising event at St. Ambrose Catholic Parish in Kisii County, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr Ouma Oluga expressed concern over the low uptake of SHA registration and called on residents to enrol to benefit from government healthcare programmes.
“It is the fundraising event that has brought us together here today. I want to tell the people of Kisii that only a few residents have registered for SHA,” said Oluga.
He said the government was working to strengthen healthcare services through the provision of medical equipment to public hospitals.
“I have already arranged for hospital equipment and it is on the way. When we leave here today, let us make sure that all of us register for SHA,” he said.
The event also provided a platform for leaders to outline ongoing development projects in the region.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati highlighted investments in infrastructure, agriculture and education, saying the county government was implementing projects designed to spur economic growth and improve public services.
Among the initiatives he cited were the construction of an industrial park, new markets, road improvements, a milk processing factory and a multi-billion-shilling stadium project.
“I want to promise my people that I will be faithful with your money,” Arati said, adding that the county had also invested in ECDE classrooms and agricultural mechanisation through the purchase of tractors.
His administration has also been piloting a school milk ptogramme targeting early learners.
Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke said efforts were underway to expand digital access and skills training for young people through the establishment of a digital hub in the area.
“Behind this church, we are building a digital hub that will help our children access the internet and learn computer skills,” he said.
Isaboke also announced plans to improve access to water through the drilling of a borehole and pledged support for a local technical training institution.
The leaders were speaking during a fundraising drive for the construction of St. Ambrose Catholic Parish, which attracted political, religious and community leaders.
According to organisers, the event raised Sh15 million towards the church project.
Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi said the fundraiser demonstrated the importance of collective support for community institutions.
“Today we have come to St. Ambrose Parish to support the construction of God’s house,” he said.
