Governor Lusaka endorses agreement with Amref, aiming to enhance the health of young people

In a significant move towards promoting youth empowerment and community transformation, Bungoma County has announced the launch of the Youth Empowerment Centres for Health (YEC4H) initiative. The initiative, backed by a results-based public-private co-financing model, aims to address teenage pregnancies, new HIV infections, and gender-based violence (GBV) in Bungoma, while promoting digital inclusion, mental health, and economic empowerment.

The initiative, which is a collaboration between Amref Health Africa and Tiko Africa, will be implemented in all 45 wards of Bungoma County. Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has signed a Memorandum of Intent to establish these centres, with at least 30% of county tenders reserved for youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

Dr Catherine Kanari, the Programs Manager at Amref Bungoma County office, highlighted that 38% of GBV cases in Bungoma involve youth. In 2023, 1,679 new HIV infections were recorded among adolescent girls in Bungoma, and statistics show that 19% of girls aged 15-19 in Bungoma are already mothers. These statistics underscore the urgent need for the YEC4H initiative.

The financial support for the three-year program is provided by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), with a sum of 495 million Kenyan Shillings. The county will commit approximately Sh300 million to the initiative. Partners will cover a viability gap of about Sh867 million for the YEC4H initiative.

The implementation of the YEC4H initiative will be phased. Tiko Africa will expand health services and recruit additional community health promoters for the initiative. By 2028, the YEC4H initiative aims to achieve a 30% reduction in teenage pregnancies, 40% fewer new HIV infections, and a 50% increase in GBV support services.

Bungoma County has created a Special Purpose Escrow Account for financial transparency. Implemented facilities will be modern, youth-friendly, and equipped with essential health commodities. YEC4H staff will be fully integrated into the county payroll by the third year. County co-payments for outputs will start after 18 months.

Governor Lusaka stated that the YEC4H initiative is more than just an initiative; it is a flagship for youth empowerment and community transformation. The initiative aims to position Bungoma as a model for youth-focused health equity in Africa.

Amref Health Africa will provide technical support and spearhead digital infrastructure for the YEC4H initiative. The initiative is set to make a significant impact in the lives of Bungoma's youth, fostering a healthier, safer, and more empowered community.

Governor Lusaka endorses agreement with Amref, aiming to enhance the health of young people