Factors Influencing Civic Participation In The Devolved Health Sector Among Health Civil Society Organizations In Kenya: A Case Of Nairobi City County

Abstract

Good health is a major influence on global population advancement. World economies have been dictated by the health of its population as exemplified with the recent case of Ebola and the prevalent HIV/AIDS. The study sought to examine factors influencing participation of health CSOs in the devolved health sector and the forms of challenges experienced in Nairobi City County. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: To determine the level of civic duty awareness among the health CSOs in Nairobi City County; To assess the level of participation by health CSOs in management of devolved health services in Nairobi City County; To examine the factors that facilitate civic participation in the devolved healthcare by health CSOs in Nairobi City county; and to identify the forms of challenges to participation faced by health CSOs in the devolved health sector in Nairobi City County. The study adopted descriptive research design. The study found out that most of the organizations operated nationally. The study further established that the Health CSOs were aware that the constitution of Kenya protected their participation in devolved health services and also the scope of their operation was clearly defined in the constitution since health service delivery at facility level in a devolved system of governance was the primary mandate of the County government. The study concluded that most of the organizations operated nationally since they had the highest percentage while a few operated regionally. CSOs were well informed and prepared for devolved health engagement. The study recommended that organizations ought to operate nationally and use constitution of Kenya to protect their participation in devolved health; roles and responsibilities of CSOs in the devolved health should be clearly defined; clear reports stating the real situation on the ground should be well stated and enhanced in order to improve participation of CSOs in devolved health issues in counties; civil society organizations should minimize their expenses to save resources and enhance performance; and all organizations should have vested interest among the other midwives of devolution.