News Categories: Health and Sanitation

Nandi County today joined the global community in observing World Oral Day, with a series of events aimed at promoting oral hygiene and increasing access to dental care. The celebrations, held at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Mosoriot Campus, brought together health officials, students, and residents in a concerted push for better oral health practices.

The event, organized in partnership with the KMTC Mosoriot Dental Center, kicked off with a vibrant awareness march through Mosoriot town. Participants, including healthcare workers and local residents, walked through the town’s streets carrying placards and banners, calling on the public to prioritize dental hygiene and regular check-ups to prevent oral diseases.

Following the procession, members of the public benefited from free dental screenings and consultations at the dental center. The exercise provided residents with an opportunity to receive professional assessments and treatment advice, addressing common issues such as cavities, gum disease, and other oral infections.

Speaking during the event, County Director for Health Dr. Christine Chebet led the residents in marking the day, emphasizing the critical link between oral health and overall well-being.

“Oral health is not just about having a bright smile; it is a gateway to our general health. Diseases of the mouth can affect the rest of the body, which is why awareness and prevention are key,” said Dr. Christine.

She commended the partnership with KMTC Mosoriot, noting that such collaborations are essential in bridging the gap in dental service delivery within the community. Dr. Christine also urged residents to adopt preventive measures, including brushing twice daily, reducing sugar intake, and visiting a dentist at least twice a year.

The World Oral Day commemoration served as a reminder of the importance of oral hygiene, with the county reiterating its commitment to integrating oral health into its broader primary healthcare strategy.

Residents of Kapsimotwa Ward turned out in large numbers today to access free healthcare services during a free medical outreach program held at Temso Dispensary. The initiative, part of the Nandi County Beyond Zero program, saw long queues forming as early as 8 a.m. as locals sought treatment and screening.

The camp was staffed by a collaborative team of healthcare workers from Nandi Hills County Hospital, Taito Dispensary, Community Health Promoters and the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital Audiology Unit. The exercise was supported by the Facility Improvement Fund (FIF), a financing mechanism designed to bolster promotive and preventive primary healthcare services at the community level.

Nandi Hills Sub County Management Team led by the MoH Dr. Caroline Kenduiywo oversaw the smooth running of the exercise.

Patients benefited from a wide range of services, including general consultations, maternal and child health care, and specialized hearing screenings conducted by an audiology team. The initiative aims to bridge the healthcare gap by bringing essential medical services closer to residents who might otherwise face barriers accessing them.

“We are grateful to see this response; it shows the community is eager for these services,” said Nancy Chepkirui, the Beyond Zero Coordinator.

The event underscores the County Department of Health and Sanitation’s commitment to taking medical care closer to homes. Through the last mile approach, facilitated by the Beyond Zero clinic truck, the county continues to extend its reach to underserved communities.

More than 120 residents from Lelmokwo/Ngechek Ward in Chesumei Sub-County received a major boost in their quest for quality healthcare today during a free medical camp organized under the Beyond Zero outreach program.

The initiative, which aims to bridge the gap in access to medical services, saw community members turn out in large numbers to receive treatment and health consultations. From children requiring vaccinations, to the elderly in need of chronic disease management, the camp catered to a wide array of medical needs. Also those with hearing impairment received medical assessment.

County Beyond Zero Coordinator Nancy Chepkirui, who oversaw the exercise, expressed her satisfaction with the high turnout. She noted that the enthusiastic response from the community demonstrated the pressing need for such services in the area.

“I want to thank the residents of Lelmokwo/Ngechek for turning up in such large numbers to seek services. It shows that when we bring services closer to the people, they are willing and ready to utilize them,” Ms. Nancy said.

She reiterated the commitment of the Department of Health and Sanitation to ensuring that no resident is left behind due to distance or cost. Ms. Nancy highlighted the leadership of County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, Dr. Angeline Kirui, and Chief Officer Fredrick Kiptum, noting that their strategic direction is focused on making healthcare accessible at the community level.

“The department, under Dr. Angeline Kirui and Chief Officer Mr. Fredrick Kiptum, is very committed to taking care closer to the people. We want to meet them where they are, removing the barrier of traveling long distances to access hospitals,” she added.

The successful outreach in Lelmokwo/Ngechek is part of a broader schedule by the Beyond Zero team to cover remote villages across the county. Residents were attended to by a team of medical professionals who offered services ranging from HIV testing and maternal health checks to treatment for common ailments.

Looking ahead, Ms. Nancy announced that the mobile medical unit will be moving to its next destination. “Next week, the Beyond Zero team will be taking these same vital services to Temso Village in Nandi Hills Ward. We encourage our neighbours there to come out in large numbers and take charge of their health,” she confirmed.

Senior health officials from Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties convened in Naivasha to review progress in reproductive health and share crucial findings from the HAPPI project, a study aimed at improving health outcomes in the region.

The meeting, which focused on the dissemination of the Health Policies and Projects Initiative (HAPPI) studies in the two counties was convened by JHPIEGO, an international health organization affiliated with Johns Hopkins University, in partnership with Kenya’s Ministry of Health.

During the session, the County Director for Health Dr. Christine Chebet joined other delegates to scrutinize county-specific testimonials and data from Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet, evaluating the achievements and strides made under the HAPPI project so far.

A significant portion of the discussions was dedicated to the dissemination of research findings and a digital display of revised Social and Behavior Change (SBC) materials for HPV vaccination. The new materials are designed to enhance community awareness and uptake of the HPV vaccine, which is critical in the fight against cervical cancer.

The meeting was graced by key dignitaries, including Paul Nyachae, the Country Director for JHPIEGO Kenya. Also present was Dr. Isaac Kipyego, the County Director of Health for Elgeyo Marakwet, who provided insights into his county’s collaboration with the program. The event was further bolstered by the presence of a representative deputizing for Dr. Rose Jalang’o, the head of the National Vaccines and Immunization Program (NVIP), underscoring the national importance of the HPV vaccination drive.

The collaborative forum highlighted the commitment of the two counties and their partners to leveraging data and digital innovation to strengthen health systems and expand immunization coverage.

In a groundbreaking achievement, the Nandi County Government under the visionary leadership of H.E. Governor Stephen Sang has successfully digitized 100% of its healthcare provision across the county.

This milestone was accomplished through the strategic deployment of 1,206 cutting-edge gadgets to all service points in 155 healthcare facilities. The initiative is designed to enhance service delivery, streamline operations, boost efficiency, and enable real-time management and tracking of medical commodities.

The county administration hailed the rollout as a transformative step toward modern, patient-centered healthcare. “This full digitization marks a new era for Nandi’s health sector, ensuring faster, more reliable services for our residents” Chief Officer for Health Fredrick Kiptum noted.

Special appreciation goes to the frontline medical staff for their swift embrace of the new system, as well as the Digital Health Agency (DHA) for their steadfast technical support and partnership.

Leading the charge is the Department of Health and Sanitation, under the dedicated guidance of County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health and Sanitation Dr. Angeline Kirui and Chief Officer Frederick Kiptum. Their leadership ensures that the digitization drive translates into tangible improvements in service delivery for every resident of Nandi. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to upholding and expanding Governor Sang’s enduring legacy in healthcare transformation.

Residents can now expect improved access to digital records, reduced wait times, and better resource allocation, positioning Nandi as a leader in county-level health innovation.

In a proactive effort to empower the boy child against emerging health risks, public health leaders from Nandihills Sub-County descended on Kapkwang ACK Church for a transformative mentorship session targeting young boys.

Led by Sub-County Public Health Officer (SCPHO) Alfred Bichiy, Sub-County Multisectoral Coordinator Julius Singoei, and the Sub-County Community Health Focal Person, alongside the ACK Sinendet (KAMA) Association, the team visited five primary schools: Kosoiywo Primary, Mosine Primary, St. Mathias Primary, Sinendet Primary, and Kipsamoo Primary. The initiative reached 285 boys aged 9 to 14, delivering a comprehensive three-hour program packed with vital life skills.

Key topics included defining drug substances and abuse; common examples of drugs; their harmful effects; the dangers of addiction and dependency; navigating peer pressure; the crucial roles of family and friends in prevention; safety measures and where to seek help; HIV prevention; the role of boys in HPV transmission through sexual activity; and the importance of registering for the Social Health Authority (SHA).

SCPHO Alfred Bichiy emphasized the session’s timeliness, stating, “These boys are our future leaders. Equipping them early with knowledge on drugs, reproductive health, and SHA enrollment will build resilient communities free from substance abuse and preventable diseases.”

The event, held under the church’s supportive roof, underscored the power of multisectoral partnerships in addressing boy child challenges, aligning with Nandi County’s push for holistic youth development.

Participants left inspired, with many pledging to resist peer pressure and promote healthy choices among peers. Local education and health stakeholders hailed the outreach as a model for scaling similar interventions across the sub-county.

In a significant boost to community healthcare, H.E. Governor Stephen Sang today spearheaded an inspection of a major free medical outreach, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering quality, affordable, and accessible health services across the region.

The Governor toured the Nandi Hills Hospital, the hub of a ten-day free eye clinic program conducted in partnership with Pankaj Social Services Foundation. The outreach, which runs from January 10th to 18th, is traversing all six sub-counties to screen residents for eye conditions. Those diagnosed with cataracts are referred to Nandi Hills Hospital for immediate, free surgical intervention.

To date, the initiative has achieved a notable milestone, with 75 patients having successfully undergone sight-restoring cataract surgeries.

“This partnership is a cornerstone of our strategy to strengthen the healthcare system,” stated Governor Sang during the visit. “Our mission is clear: to restore sight, uphold the dignity and well-being of our people, and directly improve their quality of life through such targeted, specialized care.”

In a groundbreaking move to ensure financial barriers do not hinder recovery, the County Government announced it will cover the mandatory Social Health Authority (SHA) payments for one year for all cataract patients treated through this program who are unable to afford the contributions.

The initiative has drawn praise from beneficiaries, including former Kapchorwa MCA, Hon. David Rotich. “I commend the County Government under the able leadership of Governor Sang for partnering with organizations like Pankaj to bring these essential services directly to the people, free of charge,” Rotich said. “This is governance in action.”

The hospital visit underscored the collaborative spirit of the program. Governor Sang was accompanied by key partners and county officials, including Pankaj Shah founder of Pankaj Social Services Foundation, County Executive Committee Member for Health and Sanitation Dr. Angeline Kirui, and local MCAs Hon. Edwin Kiprop (Nandi Hills Ward), Hon. Edwin Korir (Kapsimotwa Ward), and Hon. John Tiltai (Chepkunyuk Ward).

In a significant step toward transforming Kobujoi Health Centre into a fully fledged Level Four hospital, Nandi County officials handed over the site to the contractor on Monday. The event underscores the county government’s commitment to upgrading healthcare infrastructure, with key support from the Safaricom M-Pesa Foundation.

Present at the handover were Nandi County Secretary Dr. Francis Sang, MBS; CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Dr. Angeline Kirui; Chief Officer for Health Fredrick Kiptum; representatives from the Safaricom Foundation team; and the contractor.

The highlight of the project is the construction of a state-of-the-art Mother, Newborn, and Child Health Unit, fully funded and equipped by Safaricom M-Pesa Foundation. This new facility will include a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Obstetric Theatre, advanced laboratory, ante- and post-natal wards, kangaroo mother care rooms, and consultation spaces – creating vital infrastructure to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

The project is expected to be completed and operational within 32 weeks. “This partnership will enhance service delivery and significantly improve maternal and neonatal health indicators in our region,” stated Dr. Kirui during the event.

The County Government also expresses deep appreciation for its longstanding collaboration with Safaricom M-Pesa Foundation, which spans agriculture, education, skills training, sports, youth empowerment, the arts, and more. “We value their unwavering support and look forward to many more joint initiatives,” added Dr. Sang.

This development comes amid ongoing efforts by the county to bolster public health services, particularly in rural areas like Kobujoi, where access to specialized maternal care has long been a challenge.

The County Government of Nandi has reaffirmed its dedication to bringing quality healthcare directly to residents, as evidenced by a successful comprehensive medical camp held at Kaborok Dispensary in Terik Ward. Organized in collaboration with Beyond Zero Clinic, the outreach saw a large turnout from the community.

This initiative is a core part of the H. E Governor Stephen Sang administration’s ongoing agenda to transform the health sector and ensure essential services are accessible to all citizens.

During the camp, the county government provided a wide range of free services, including general medical consultations, eye examinations and reading glasses, dental treatment, ENT and maternal health services, directly addressing the community’s needs.

Speaking at the event, the County Executive Committee Member for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Angeline Kirui, applauded the residents’ participation and confirmed that many patients were successfully treated and given necessary medications. She firmly reaffirmed the county government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening and transforming healthcare delivery across Nandi.

Echoing this commitment, Health Chief Officer Fredrick Kiptum provided essential public health guidance, encouraging patients with conditions like high blood pressure to adhere to prescriptions and utilize local health facilities for routine care – a key pillar of the county’s preventive health strategy.

The county’s efforts were met with direct appreciation from the community. Mzee Korir, a resident of Kaborok, expressed gratitude for the medical camp, noting its significant impact. He appealed for more frequent such camps across all wards, a suggestion that aligns with the county’s goal of enhancing health awareness.

Terik Ward Member of the County Assembly, Hon Eliud Maindi, highlighted the county government’s dual commitment to both infrastructure and service delivery, thanking the administration for constructing Kaborok Dispensary and selecting it for this major outreach. He described the county-built facility as a “one-stop shop” designed to eliminate long-distance travel for medical care.

The County Government of Nandi encourages residents to continue accessing services at Kaborok Dispensary as it officially opened doors today, underscoring its long-term commitment to sustainable healthcare provision for every resident.

County health services have received a significant upgrade following a major donation of critical medical equipment from the Kenya Deposit Insurance Corporation (KIDC). The donation, provided under KIDC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, is set to enhance the quality of care for mothers and newborns across local facilities.

The consignment includes essential items such as CTG machines for fetal monitoring, radiant warmers, patient monitors, modern delivery beds, phototherapy machines, and sterile supplies including theatre gowns, drapes, and delivery packs.

According to county health officials, this equipment will directly contribute to safer deliveries, improve the management of preterm and high-risk newborns, and alleviate operational pressure on healthcare workers. The infusion of resources aligns with ongoing efforts to upgrade health infrastructure, improve service efficiency, and ensure timely and dignified care for all mothers and infants.

The handover was preceded by a courtesy call by the KIDC team, led by Chief Executive Officer Hellen Chepkwony, to the Deputy Governor, H.E. Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot. The meeting explored avenues for continued collaboration between the corporation and the county government.

Present during the engagement were the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Angeline Kirui, Chief Officer for Health Fred Kiptum, and Primary Health Care Coordinator Sally Kemboi.

The donation marks a pivotal step in strengthening the county’s capacity to provide lifesaving maternal and child healthcare services.