Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi urges Kenyans to assume responsibility for financing their healthcare system due to dwindling international aid. He emphasizes the need for local healthcare financing mechanisms to achieve Universal Health Coverage. Mudavadi also highlights the importance of prioritizing healthcare over political interests, honoring the late Senator William Cheptumo for his contributions to the region.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called for Kenyans to take charge of financing their healthcare system, emphasizing that reliance on international aid is becoming increasingly unsustainable. During a recent engagement in Geneva, he acknowledged the reduction in global health funding and encouraged strengthening local healthcare financing mechanisms to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Mudavadi pointed out that the responsibility of financing healthcare falls on Kenya and enjoined citizens and leaders to address gaps within the system proactively. He remarked, “The world is telling us to take care of our own sick and not to wait for external aid,” indicating a shift in expectation regarding healthcare support.
He underscored the importance of UHC for national development, stressing that healthcare should be accessible and affordable for all Kenyans. He cautioned against politicizing health issues, asserting that the well-being of citizens must take precedence over political interests. “We can do politics with other things, but let us not do politics with the health of our people,” he stated.
Reflecting on the funeral service of the late Senator William Cheptumo, Mudavadi honored the senator’s integrity and commitment to service. He acknowledged Cheptumo’s efforts in addressing regional issues such as cattle rustling and celebrated his legacy as a leader marked by resilience and humility.
Mudavadi noted the significant contributions of the Tugen community to leadership in Kenya, citing prominent figures such as the late President Daniel Arap Moi. He remarked on the extraordinary leadership qualities that have emerged from the region, emphasizing the lasting impact of leaders like Senator Cheptumo on the community and the nation.
Musalia Mudavadi’s call for a shift in healthcare financing underlines a critical turning point for Kenya as it seeks to build a self-sustaining healthcare system. Emphasizing local responsibility and accessibility, his remarks highlight the need for unity in addressing the challenges of healthcare adequacy without reliance on foreign assistance. This plea reflects a broader commitment to improving national health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to medical services for all Kenyans.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
