The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the County Government of West Pokot, has launched a 10-day training programme for Community Health Promoters (CHPs) aimed at strengthening primary healthcare and disease prevention efforts at the grassroots level.
The training, taking place at Mary Assumption Catholic Church in Makutano, seeks to equip CHPs with practical knowledge on providing basic assistance to patients before referral to advanced health facilities.
According to Justus Kosen, the Public Health Officer in charge of the facilitation, the main goal of the programme is to empower CHPs to focus on disease prevention rather than waiting for treatment.
“The major objective of Community Health Promoters is to sensitize the community on preventing diseases instead of waiting until they require treatment,” said Mr. Kosen.
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The CHPs are also being trained to register households, assist with SHA (Social Health Authority) registration, and act as a vital link between communities and health facilities. They will further educate residents on the importance of child immunization, management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension, and follow up on patients defaulting on TB and HIV/AIDS medication.
The 10-day training covers key topics including Health and Development, Primary Health Care, Advocacy, Communication and Community Engagement, Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, Basic Health Care Services, Community Health Information and Surveillance, and Community Health Management.
Some of the participants expressed their appreciation for the training, noting that it has enhanced their ability to serve their communities effectively.
“I’m very happy for the valuable lessons we’re learning from the eight modules. I now feel equipped and energized to share accurate health information with community members,” said Selina Cheyech from Komol Unit.
Her sentiments were echoed by Sarah Chepkiach from Chemwochoi, Josephine Chepkemei from Kaprom, and Margaret Nagpal from Chewoyet Unit, who described the training as timely and empowering.
By Martin Ruto
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