Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) donates a standing aid to a child living with cerebral palsy during celebrations to mark World Physiotherapy Day at JKUAT/HANDOUTThe Kenya Society of Physiotherapists (KSP) has called on the government to include physiotherapy services in the Social Health Authority (SHA) packages.
KSP argued that the profession plays a critical role in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and should not be sidelined.
Speaking during the World Physiotherapy Day celebrations held at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), KSP President Henry Opondo decried widespread misconceptions about physiotherapy, saying the public often confuses it with massage therapy.
“Many people still view physiotherapy as massage,” Opondo
said. “This is not luxury care. It’s about restoring function, dignity, and
independence.”
He urged SHA to recognise physiotherapy as an essential healthcare service and include it in all UHC service packages.
Opondo also stressed the need for greater investment in physiotherapy infrastructure, equipment, and trained personnel—particularly in underserved rural regions.
The event, which brought together health professionals, students, and policymakers, was part of Kenya’s contribution to the global observance of World Physiotherapy Day.
This year’s theme—“The Role of Physiotherapy and Physical Activity in Healthy Ageing, with a Focus on Preventing Frailty and Falls”—highlighted the increasing importance of mobility care in ageing populations.
Douglas C. Kotut, CEO of the Physiotherapy Council of Kenya, echoed Opondo’s sentiments, pointing to research that shows physiotherapy is not just beneficial, but potentially life-saving.
“Studies show physical activity could prevent 4 to 5 million deaths annually,” Kotut noted.
“Structured exercise programmes can reduce frailty by 41 per cent and falls by 25 per cent. These statistics aren’t just numbers. They represent real lives. Physiotherapy saves and improves them.”
Representing the JKUAT Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Wambui
Ngumi, Dr. Reuben Thuo, Principal of the College of Health Sciences, said
Kenya’s shifting demographics demand a new approach to healthcare.
“With life expectancy rising, we must shift our focus to maintaining mobility, independence, and dignity in later years,” he said.
The event also spotlighted community support initiatives. Lilly Masso, a lecturer at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), donated a standing aid kit to a family in need, demonstrating physiotherapy’s tangible impact on daily life.
“Small interventions like this can change lives,” Masso said.
