By Lorraine Anyango
In a jubilant celebration marked by pomp, style, and a tangible sense of hope, Kisumu witnessed the unveiling of Marwa’s next chapter in health insurance. Led by Governor Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, the event saw the participation of county officials, partners, and hundreds of Kisumu residents, all beaming with anticipation for the opportunities that membership in Marwa promises.
Against a backdrop of confetti, music, and vibrant dancing, Governor Nyong’o emphasized the importance of collective action in ensuring accessible, affordable, and equitable healthcare for all residents of Kisumu County. He highlighted the significance of the new phase of Marwa, aptly named “MARWA plus,” which aims to bolster health insurance penetration and transform lives through self-healthcare.
Speaking passionately to the gathered crowd, Governor Nyong’o reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his manifesto promise of ensuring that 70% of Kisumu’s population is covered by health insurance. He underscored the critical role of community participation and ownership in the structure and operation of universal healthcare, urging Kisumu residents to register and actively contribute towards health insurance.
The event also witnessed the launch of the Marwa Insurance Subsidy Program, designed to assist individuals in the informal sector who may struggle to afford premiums. Through this initiative, the County Government of Kisumu will cover a portion of the premium, enabling more residents to access quality healthcare.
Furthermore, Governor Nyong’o unveiled the Marwa self-paying membership option, offering enhanced benefits and streamlined registration processes through the newly launched Kisumu Solidarity Health Cover website. He emphasized the importance of partnerships with organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO) in facilitating registration and reducing default rates.
Governor Nyong’o expressed pride in aligning Marwa with the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), ensuring universal access to health insurance and enabling inclusive coverage for underserved markets. He urged residents from all walks of life, including Mama Mboga, jua kali artisans, and farmers, to seize the opportunity and enroll under Marwa.
Empowering the Informal Sector:
Recognizing the challenges faced by the informal sector, Marwa Plus introduces a subsidy program. Individuals will contribute a portion of the premium, with the County Government covering the rest. This targeted approach, already piloted successfully with market vendors, ensures specialized care for groups like Sickle Cell Warriors and others.
In closing, Governor Nyong’o thanked the community for their steadfast support and emphasized the power of collective action in reshaping the landscape of healthcare accessibility in Kisumu
County. As the event concluded, the spirit of Marwa lingered in the air, with residents eager to embark on this journey towards a healthier and brighter future for all.
The deputy governor Mathew Owili, said that Marwa has come along long way and appreciated the team led by the County Executive Committee Member Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation Dr Greggory Ganda for handling the Marwa assignment with such seriousness and commitment.
The partners present, including the Fred Hollows Foundation, PharmAcess, ILO and NHIF affirmed their commitment to ensuring affordable, and accessible quality health care becomes a success.
