Vihiga Governor Wilberforce Ottichilo has called on health workers to ensure that medicines supplied to county facilities are used responsibly, warning that any misappropriation will not be tolerated.
He also urged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspected theft or misuse of drugs.
The remarks came on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, as the governor received a Ksh 34 million shipment of medical and non-medical supplies from the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
The package includes Ksh 30 million in essential medicines and Ksh 4 million in equipment and other healthcare items, all set to support the county’s 75 health facilities.
Ottichilo described the delivery as a major step in strengthening healthcare service delivery, saying it aligns with the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) and the county’s long-term health strategy.
“Vihiga has invested in building resilient health systems over the years, and these supplies ensure our facilities continue to serve residents efficiently,” he noted.
He encouraged residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access medical services and urged facility managers to use the supplies judiciously.
The governor also acknowledged KEMSA’s ongoing partnership with the county, underpinned by a long-term Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which has ensured steady medical supply chains.
Under the Facility Improvement Fund (FIF) Act, funds collected through SHA will be reinvested into health facilities, supporting operational sustainability and empowering facilities to function independently.
Ottichilo stressed that the FIF remains a key component of the county’s CIDP, enhancing both financing and autonomy in health service delivery.
Highlighting Vihiga’s achievements in healthcare access, Ottichilo revealed that no resident walks more than three kilometres to reach a health facility, surpassing the World Health Organisation’s recommended maximum distance of five kilometres.
“Our residents enjoy closer and more convenient access to health services than the global standard,” he said.
By K24 Digital