Health Ministry flags off 500 bicycles to boost Community Health services in Kwale

Health PS Mary Muthoni flags off 500 bicycles in Kwale on October 31, 2025 [MOH/X]

The Ministry of Health has flagged off 500 bicycles to enhance the mobility and efficiency of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Kwale County, marking a significant step in strengthening primary health care at the grassroots level.

In a statement on Friday, the Ministry said the initiative was launched in partnership with several non-profit organisations (NGOs), aiming to support CHPs in reaching more households and improving health service delivery in remote areas.

"The Ministry of Health, in partnership with Amref Health Africa, World Bicycle Relief, and Buffalo Bicycles Kenya, has today flagged off 500 bicycles for Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Kwale County to enhance their mobility and efficiency in delivering essential healthcare services at the community level," the statement said.

The event took place in Kwale County on Friday, led by the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni.

Health PS Mary Muthoni rides on a bicycle during the flag off event of 500 bicycles in Kwale [MOH/X]

PS Muthoni underscored that mobility plays a critical role in the success of Primary Health Care (PHC), which is a cornerstone of the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.

She said the bicycles will enable CHPs to conduct timely follow-ups, enhance disease prevention, and ensure quick responses during health emergencies and community campaigns.

She added that the program demonstrates the State's commitment to equipping CHPs with support to deliver quality healthcare to every Kenyan, regardless of location.

"The initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to empower CHPs with the tools, skills, and logistical support they need to ensure that every Kenyan, regardless of location, can access quality healthcare without financial hardship," it stated.

CHPs play an essential role in connecting communities to the formal health system.

They conduct household visits, promote hygiene and sanitation, offer maternal and child health support, and help identify and refer patients needing specialised care.

However, their work is often hampered by logistical challenges, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

The event also highlights the broader government strategy to operationalise the Community Health Promoters program nationwide.

The program seeks to deploy over 100,000 trained CHPs across Kenya as part of the Universal Health Coverage rollout, ensuring that essential healthcare services are delivered at the household level.

Through this initiative, the Ministry of Health reaffirms its commitment to making healthcare accessible, equitable, and sustainable for all Kenyans, one community at a time, in line with its mandate.

The mandate of the Ministry is to build a responsive and sustainable healthcare system in Kenya, with key functions including setting health policy, regulating the health sector, managing national referral facilities, building capacity, and providing technical assistance to counties.

It is also responsible for public health promotion, preventive services, health education, sanitation, nutrition, and implementing initiatives like Universal Health Coverage (UHC).