Nairobi health workers decry stipend delays, lack of gear

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. [Bernard Orwongo, Standard]

Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Nairobi have raised concerns over delayed stipends, lack of medical cover, and inadequate work gear, which they say hinder their ability to perform effectively.

During a Nairobi Senate Office oversight programme chaired by Senator Edwin Sifuna, the CHPs highlighted their challenges while working on the frontlines to improve community health and well-being.

The meeting convened to assess the county government’s community health programme, sought input from CHPs on the nature of their work.

The promoters expressed frustration with what they termed as neglect by both the county and national governments.

“We do not have medical cover to support us when we fall ill. Previously, under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), we contributed Sh500, but under the Social Health Authority (SHA), we are not catered for. It is disheartening to help others access healthcare that we cannot afford ourselves,” said Ahmed, one of the CHPs.

The sentiments were echoed by other CHPs who decried the irregular payment of stipends, which has left many struggling to make ends meet.

They called on the government to address the issue urgently to ensure timely compensation for their work.

The lack of adequate work gear was another pressing issue raised during the session, with the CHPs stating that working without basic protective equipment, such as gumboots, puts their health at risk.

This, they said, is especially concerning given the hazardous conditions they often encounter at the community level.

Senator Sifuna condemned the county government for failing to equip CHPs adequately despite engaging them in critical public health duties.

“What you have raised here are genuine concerns, and I commit to following up on your behalf. It is unacceptable for the county government to expect you to work under such conditions without the necessary tools and protections,” he said.

Sifuna also urged the national government to compensate CHPs involved in SHA registration, stating that the task should not be carried out without pay.

Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda weighed in on claims of favouritism in capacity-building programmes, describing the practice as discriminatory.

“Sickness knows no tribe or boundaries. CHPs should not be discriminated against or sidelined in training programmes,” Mutinda said.

The senators pledged to escalate the matter to ensure CHPs receive the recognition, support, and compensation they deserve for their role in enhancing community health.