Civil society organisations in Bungoma have called for increased funding for Primary Health Care (PHC), urging the county government to raise its allocation from the current 10 per cent to at least 15 per cent.

Increasing the PHC budgetary allocation will ensure better equipping of dispensaries and health centres, enhance staffing and ensure a consistent supply of essential medicines.

The organisations say the move will improve access to grassroots health services by residents.

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Speaking during a community engagement forum in Marakaru Ward, Rural Empowerment Development Organisation (REDO) programmes officer Ezekiel Odeo said PHC is the backbone of the health system and requires priority in county budgeting.

Odeo said investing in primary health care is not only cost-effective but also critical in addressing most health needs at the community level before they develop into serious conditions requiring expensive treatment.

“Primary healthcare is a very important aspect of our health system because it is the first contact for those seeking medical services. If we strengthen it, we reduce the burden on higher-level facilities and ensure early detection and prevention of diseases,” he said.

The officer asked the Bungoma county assembly to fast-track the enactment of a law that would anchor primary health care within a clear legal framework, noting that the absence of such legislation has left gaps in implementation and funding.

“Having a law or policy will provide guidance on how primary health care is implemented and budgeted for and ensure accountability and sustainability in service delivery,” he added.

He said delays by the county government to pass a bill that would streamline operations for Community Health Promoters (CHPs) have slowed their operations, despite them receiving their monthly stipends.

“CHPs are a critical link between households and the health system, but their efforts are optimised without a clear policy framework. Enacting the relevant bill will ensure they are properly facilitated and their roles clearly defined,” he said.

Anne Simiyu, a resident who attended the forum, highlighted the challenges they face in accessing quality health services, particularly in rural areas where facilities are under-resourced and understaffed.

She said strengthening PHC would significantly reduce long distances travelled to referral hospitals and cut down on out-of-pocket expenses for basic services.