Governors from central Kenya agree to implement Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

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Health Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki on Monday oversaw the signing of an agreement by seven governors from Central Kenya to implement the second phase of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.

The first phase of the UHC programme was launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018.

Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Embu, Meru and Tharaka nithi counties are among those to roll out the second phase of UHC.

CS Kairuki pointed out that cooperation between the two levels of government may yield fruits in the health sector of the counties.

"If we work in a cohesive manner as stipulated under the partnership agreement, then we are likely to see better health outcomes within this programme," she said.

The CS added that after signing of the agreement, the county officials will now embark on ensuring Kenyans receive quality health services.

The deal also directed for 4000 interns to be placed at various health institutions to help in providing health services.

Nyandarua Governor Francis Kimemia expressed confidence in the success of the UHC programme.

“We have listened to governors who piloted the scheme and we are confident that this programme is implementable. It will succeed. In the past, we have implemented more complicated programs such as free education, which worked,” he stated.

More counties are expected to join in the signing of the agreement.