Kehancha: The government has urged all older persons currently benefiting from the Inua Jamii cash transfer programme to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) in order to access the state’s affordable health coverage. Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs PS Joseph Motari highlighted the importance of healthcare for the elderly during an empowerment drive for the Kehancha Matatu Association fundraising in Kehancha town.

According to Kenya News Agency, Motari emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting senior citizens through the Inua Jamii cash transfer programme, which provides monthly stipends to aid their upkeep. He also addressed the pressing concern of rising insecurity in Kehancha, Kuria West sub-county, where recent incidents have resulted in the loss of several lives, including a local chief.

In addition to security issues, Motari urged residents to engage in responsible mining practices and called on parents to prioritize education over child labor. He underscored that min
ing should remain an income-generating activity reserved for adults, and expressed concern over unregulated artisanal mining activities. Collaboration with local National Government Administrative Officers was deemed necessary to enhance safety and maintain order.

Kuria West Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Gedy Hambe also encouraged residents to enroll in the government’s medical scheme, emphasizing its role in alleviating the financial burden of healthcare. Kuria West MP Mathias Robi and Migori Deputy Governor Joseph Mahiri, who were present at the event, echoed these sentiments, stating that increased enrollment in SHA would bolster local hospitals and improve healthcare access for the community.