The Murang’a County Government has added KSh80 million on top of the KSh162 million that was set aside for a free NHIF cards program for its residents dubbed ‘Kang’ata Care’.

The KSh162 million initial fund for the program catered for 30,000 residents who are aged, living with disabilities, orphans and needy families.

But the program has now been expanded to cater for other residents who are unable to pay for NHIF cards.

Deputy Governor Stephen Munania said that it was a campaign promise to the people of Murang’a that the government will keep on expanding the health services to the people and especially those suffering from terminal illnesses.

Munania confirmed that many residents have not been able to pay for themselves NHIF cards due to the high cost of living, triggering the government to answer their calls.

Speaking at Mbombo Reli and Kaharati roadside markets in Maragua constituency, the deputy governor said that the program has been very supportive to many families since one card is supporting NHIF services for one homestead of a nuclear family.

Traders whom we interviewed confessed to having been unable to pay for NHIF services due to the high cost of living, saying the card by the County government has been very supportive.

The program that has been extended even to schools has seen many give thanks to the County Government.

Story by Joe Gathuya