Community health volunteers (CHWs) in Kenya are advocating for improved pay and professional recognition as they play a critical role in bridging gaps in the country’s overstretched healthcare system.
In rural areas like Lwala, where access to healthcare is limited, CHWs like Millicent Miruka provide essential services, including health education, routine medical checks, and family planning guidance. With around 100,000 CHWs nationwide, their work has proven vital in improving health outcomes and alleviating pressure on clinics and hospitals.
Despite their contributions, CHWs have long faced inadequate pay and a lack of career advancement. Until 2023, many earned between $15 to $35 monthly, and less than 15% of CHWs in sub-Saharan Africa are compensated at all.
Recognizing their importance, the Kenyan government took steps in 2023 to formalize the sector, registering over 103,000 CHWs, standardizing pay at $35 monthly, and equipping them with medical kits and smartphones. While these measures mark progress, CHWs like Miruka believe more must be done to treat them as professionals, including better pay, training, and career pathways.
Globally, CHWs are celebrated for their cost-effective impact on healthcare systems. Studies in Kenya have shown they significantly increase immunization rates and encourage clinic births. However, their reliance on donor funding and inconsistent management has created challenges in sustaining their contributions.
As Kenya’s CHWs push for greater recognition, they remain committed to serving their communities, often motivated by personal experiences and a deep desire to improve public health.