Advocay
Key Priority Areas
At this time, asthma has no cure. To live symptom free, people with asthma need clean unpolluted air and access to medicines. We are asking the Government of Kenya to work together with our community on these key policy priorities.
Priority 1: A Sustainable Clean Air Energy Mix
AAOKENYA applauds the Government of Kenya plan to establish a Pricing model by 2018. We support the initiative to accelerate the transition from coal power to clean energy by 2030. We also support the provision listed in the most recent federal budget that will phase out tax deduction to energy companies doing new explorations in oil and natural gas.
Sustainable, clean energy is necessary for the health, well-being and prosperity of all Kenyans. There is no credible path to climate stabilization without a substantial role for clean renewable energies such as nuclear, hydro solar, wind, and geothermal. On behalf of people living with asthma, we support initiatives which promote clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.The asthma community is calling on the Government of Kenya to continue measures which improve air quality through investment in clean, sustainable energy sources and green technologies.
Priority 2: Choice and Access to Treatments
Currently, Kenya is the only country which has a national healthcare plan that does not include a national drug program for prescription medication[i]. Every year, Kenyan prescription drug costs increase faster than that of all other OECD countries[ii][iii].
AAOKENYA supports the Government’s commitment to reduce costs and improve access to necessary prescription medications, as outlined in the Health Minister’s mandate letter to the National Government.
We believe that all Kenyans living with asthma should have equitable and timely access to prescription medications based on the best possible health outcomes rather than ability to pay.The asthma community is calling on the Government of Kenya to eliminate all gaps in drug coverage and ensure a wide range of treatment options are available based on best health outcomes. This will ensure that every Kenyan has access to the medicines they need to lead the best quality of life possible.
Priority 3: Access to Medicines in School
Asthma is among the most common chronic diseases of childhood in Kenya. Asthma is also among the top reasons why children are admitted to hospital. In Kenya, over 63 children die every year from complications related to asthma.
After a concerted effort on the part of AAOKENYA and various advocacy partners, We aim to pass a Law in 2020-2021, which, among other provisions, gives children in Kenya the right to carry their asthma medications in schools
We believe that all Kenyan children have the right to safe and healthy conditions in school. All Kenyan children should have the right to carry their asthma medication with them in school.The asthma community is calling on all County Governments in Kenya to institute legislation that will provide children the right to immediately access their asthma medicines in school, in order to ensure the safety of all children with asthma.