County Governance Watch (CGW), a vital NGO in Kenya, is at the forefront of promoting socio-economic development, peace, and security in Kenyan counties. Through their innovative County Governance Index (CGI), CGW is revolutionizing healthcare service delivery in Nairobi. The CGI, a citizen-focused evaluation tool, assesses county performance in critical areas like health, water, education, infrastructure, and agriculture, ensuring a comprehensive approach to governance and service delivery.
In Nairobi, where 60-80% of the population resides in informal settlements with limited healthcare access, CGW’s study has been pivotal. The survey, covering Westlands, Langata, and Starehe Sub Counties, employed questionnaires and focus groups to gauge public perception of devolved health services. Findings reveal significant disparities in healthcare quality and accessibility, despite Nairobi’s status as a national and international health hub.
The city’s health sector, grappling with high under-5 mortality rates and modest National Hospital Insurance Fund coverage, reflects the urgent need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure. Despite allocating approximately 22% of its budget to health in FY 2020/21, below the national target of 30%, Nairobi shows a commitment to improving health services, with CGW’s insights playing a crucial role in shaping future healthcare strategies in Kenya’s capital.