NHIF, cash transfer for 20,000 needy Mandera families

Mandera aims to provide health cover for 20,000 vulnerable households.

Separately, the new administration of Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif also plans a monthly cash transfer for the same families in its social protection scheme.

The programme and the amount must be approved by the county assembly. There was speculation it could be about Sh5,000.

Deputy Governor Dr Ali Mahamud announced the intentions for NIHF cover and cash transfer on Thursday when he made an impromptu visit to Mandera County Referral Hospital.

The aim was to assess its status and its needs.

He was accompanied by Health executive Mohamed Adan and other officials. 

Mahmud said a robust healthcare infrastructure is in place thanks to the administration of former Governor Ali Roba, now senator.

Governor Khalif's administration will build on that foundation, he said.

“Going forward, we are determined Mandera County Referral Hospital operates fully as a proper Level 5 facility,” the deputy governor said.

“We will lobby partners to establish a research and development wing to help us manage emerging health challenges."

The deputy governor said the administration also plans to support 20,000 vulnerable families through cash transfers.

He said the programme will help cushion poor families against inflation and the high cost of living.

"I appeal for support from development partners and well-wishers to enable the county to cover more vulnerable people," he said.

Mahamud also said the county would fully support women's leadership and support business women.

“We assure our mothers, sisters and daughters that we will implement the two-thirds gender rule effectively as part of affirmative action.

"We have robust plans to establish the Mandera County Women's Economic Development Fund to support our resilient business women and entrepreneurs,” he said.

During his inauguration speech, Governor Khalif said his administration will fast-track, equip and put into operation all completed health projects. They include the blood bank at MCRH.

The governor also pledged to complete pending projects as the administration decentralises services. He said medical specialists would be hired.

He said the Kenya Medical Training College will be prioritised and workshops and advanced laboratories will be built. Local students will not have to travel far for medical training, Khalif said

The governor promised to invest in capacity-building to improve the skills of current health personnel.

All cadres of county government staff will receive comprehensive medical cover, he promised. Details were not immediately known.

(Edited by V. Graham)