Kakamega: Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa has called on residents to enroll in the Social Health Authority (SHA) program to gain access to free medical care in public hospitals. Speaking at the Madaraka Day celebrations at Malava Primary School, Governor Barasa emphasized the benefits of the SHA program, which allows enrolled members to receive medical treatment at all levels of public hospitals without additional charges.

According to Kenya News Agency, the SHA program provides a wide range of health care services, from primary care to advanced treatments at level six hospitals. Governor Barasa highlighted that residents could access free medical treatment at level two and three hospitals while the SHA covers approximately 80% of comprehensive health care costs at level five and six hospitals.

Governor Barasa noted that with a monthly contribution of just 300 shillings, beneficiaries could access essential medical services and have their hospital bills covered during illnesses and medical emergencies. Additionally, Kakamega County Commissioner Meru Mwangi encouraged residents to engage in horticulture farming, such as coffee and avocado cultivation, as the government is supplying free seedlings to farmers.

The County Commissioner also urged residents to focus on tree planting and nurturing initiatives to combat climate change and enhance livelihoods.