By Elizabeth Ongayo
The County Government of Vihiga has been directed to adopt a pragmatic approach to address the challenges faced by health workers in the county, rather than constantly recalling them. This instruction was given by Sabatia Member of Parliament, Clement Sloya, who emphasized the need for the government to take responsibility for finding solutions to the problems faced by these workers.
Sloya, who made the statement in Vihiga County, urged the government to involve health workers in all plans related to healthcare, ensuring they receive adequate support and can effectively handle the challenges they face. The parliamentarian’s call comes amid growing concerns about the well-being of health workers in the county, who have been facing numerous difficulties.
However, the Minister for Water and Environment, who is also the Deputy Governor of Vihiga County, Meshack Mulongo, contradicted Sloya’s statement. Mulongo argued that the problem of health workers is a national issue in Kenya, and not specific to Vihiga County. This stance has been met with criticism from some quarters, who feel that the issue is not being addressed adequately.
The Vihiga County Governor, Wilber Ottichilo, has also dismissed the action taken by Mulongo, describing it as unnecessary. Ottichilo’s comments have added to the growing controversy surrounding the issue of health workers in the county. The situation is now taking a toll on the morale of health workers, who are struggling to provide adequate healthcare services to the community.