The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The National Assembly’s Health Committee has given the green light to Safaricom’s KSh 104.8 billion Integrated Information Technology System (IITS) for Universal Healthcare.
This initiative aims to digitize Kenya’s healthcare system and had previously faced criticism over its procurement process and Safaricom’s involvement.
However, after a thorough review, the committee found the procurement process to be compliant with legal standards and transparent.
During a press briefing, the chairperson addressed concerns regarding the project’s legal framework and the selection of Safaricom as the lead partner.
The committee was informed that the Ministry of Health secured the necessary approval from the Attorney General’s office, confirming that all legal requirements under Section 134(2) of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act were met.
Concerns were also raised about Safaricom’s role as the lead partner in a consortium that includes Apiero Limited and Konvergenz Network Solutions Limited. Some members questioned why the telecommunications company was chosen over other contenders.
The Ministry of Health defended this decision by highlighting Safaricom’s technological expertise and extensive network coverage. With a 5G network reaching 77% of the Kenyan population and overall coverage of 99%, Safaricom was identified as the most suitable partner for a project that demands reliable connectivity, particularly in remote areas.
As the lead partner, Safaricom will coordinate the project and ensure that all consortium partners meet their obligations.
The KSh 104.8 billion project aims not only to enhance Social Health Insurance but also to create a comprehensive integrated healthcare system in Kenya. Key components of the initiative include a Health Information Management System, a Health Information Exchange platform, telemedicine services, and a pharmaceutical tracking system.
Additionally, the project will establish the Social Health Authority (SHA) Insurance Management Platform, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, National Logistics and Supply Chain Management software, and a data analytics platform to bolster healthcare services.
