News Categories: Health and Sanitation

It is an early morning in Lelmokwo Dispensary, Lelmokwo/Ngechek Ward, nurses working at the health dispensary saw just a handful of patients. Yet several kilometers away at Mosoriot County Hospital, a sub-county hospital – intended for treating the most severe and complicated cases – faces a flood of patients traveling from nearby trading centres and as far as Lelmokwo village, the majority of whom were waiting for maternity services and basic outpatient services like treatment for malaria and upper respiratory infections which can be handled at Lelmokwo Dispensary and other nearby dispensaries like Sigot and Ngechek.

This phenomenon is not unique in other parts of the county – patients frequently bypass lower-level health facilities and community health workers closer to their homes to seek services elsewhere, often at higher-level facilities perceived to be of better quality.

Dispensaries serve as the first health contact and are an interface between community health workers and health centres. Here, health workers provide essential primary care services and make referrals to hospitals for specialized services, ultimately strengthening the foundation of the health system and improving the way people receive the care they need. The dispensaries contribute to an effective response to emergencies and communities are able to access basic care.

For pregnant women and their babies, dispensaries are life-saving. Now, with the dispensaries closer to home, they can receive the services they need when and where they need them.

The County Government of Nandi has made primary health care a priority to improve access to upgraded healthcare services such as maternity and make progress towards universal health coverage (UHC). Its goal is to ensure that people need to walk less than an hour to visit a health facility.

The County’s Community Health Assistants (CHAs) and Community Health Promoters (CHPs) program is one of the home grown solutions at village level, to complement existing health services delivery beyond established dispensaries and health centers which take care of transitional situations, and then the Sub County, County and Referral hospitals of which core mandate is to care for patients referred by the above-mentioned primary-level facilities.

The County Department of Health and Sanitation envisions a county where all women, newborns, and children survive, are healthy, and able to develop and reach their full potential, contributing to the development of their communities.

The County Government of Nandi has since constructed and upgraded a number of maternity wings across the six sub counties. The upgraded facilities – which included refurbishment, medical equipment and supplies, as well as training of staff – aimed at providing quality health care for mothers and children.

“Over the recent past, we have significantly reduced the rates of maternal and child mortality. As a Department, we are proud of this progress, resulting from prioritized public health interventions by the County Government of Nandi. With sustained support from our partners, I am confident that we can further improve maternal and child health indicators, towards the 2024 targets,” says Fredrick Kiptum, the Chief Officer for Health.

The journey towards achieving comprehensive healthcare calls for a joint and collaborative effort from all stakeholders.

Improving healthcare infrastructure and increasing access to healthcare services is also crucial in ensuring residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare services and facilities that can ultimately lead to timely interventions and improved health outcomes. Through Public Private Partnerships, the County Government of Nandi continues to collaborate with private sector entities to develop healthcare infrastructure and expand access to healthcare services by building hospitals and providing essential medical supplies and equipment to underserved areas.

New Kibisem Dispensary, funded by Karebe Gold Mine

Through these collaborations, significant strides have been made in enhancing access to healthcare services.

Earlier today, the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech toured the newly constructed Kibisem Dispensary in Chemelil/Chemase Ward funded by Karebe Gold Mining Company ahead of its handing over next month. She was hosted by the area MCA Hon Martin Douglas, Jeremy Froome – Karebe Director/CFO, Nico Van Rensburg – Karebe General Manager and Kibisem Dispensary Management Committee.

Speaking at the facility, the CEC Member said that the unique partnership between the County Government of Nandi and Karebe Gold Mine leverages on the comparative advantages of the two organizations to accelerate primary healthcare revitalization towards the achievement of Universal Health Coverage and health security in Nandi. She thanked the Company for their continued support in the health sector.

On his part, Karebe Director Jeremy Froome expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with the County Government of Nandi and reiterated the Company’s commitment to supporting county’s healthcare and education sector towards achieving UHC by leveraging on the strengths, expertise, and resources of both partners to address pressing health challenges and improve health out comes across the Chemelil/Chemase Ward.

Area MCA Martin Douglas lauded the continued partnership saying it holds a great promise in addressing complex healthcare challenges while using innovative approaches to drive positive change towards improved health outcomes for generations to come.

The County Government of Nandi in partnership with Karebe Gold Mines have been collaborating with local communities in Chemelil/Chemase Ward to raise awareness about health issues, promote preventative healthcare practices and encourage communities to seek timely medical care. Such community engagements, awareness and involvement are crucial for ensuring the sustainability and acceptance of healthcare interventions.

By bringing innovations, investing in healthcare infrastructure and empowering local communities, Karebe Gold Mining Company is making contributions for sustainable health improvements in Chemelil/Chemase Ward.

The construction of the New Mother and Child Hospital Complex in Kapsabet Ward, Emgwen Sub County, has entered its final finishing phase of construction.

Earlier today, H. E Governor Stephen Sang checked on the progress of the completion works of the new building at the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital.

“We have also started the procurement process for phased supply of hospital equipment for this new facility,” said Governor Sang.

The Governor said the aim of the inspection was to ascertain and review the progress of work achieved thus far.

He was conducted round by the site engineer, who briefed him on the project’s status.

He expressed satisfaction with the progress of work at site and the quality of job executed, while assuring that ongoing projects would be completed in record time.

Also present were the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech, Chief Officer Fredrick Kiptum, Kapsabet County Referral Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Tanui, engineers among other officials.

The core principle driving the goal of universal health coverage is to ensure that all individuals have access to comprehensive, high-quality health services that are affordable and easily accessible. The collective efforts by the County Government of Nandi and industry players is helping in taking accelerated steps to achieve these goals. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) represent new avenues of financing and operating for healthcare projects, thereby alleviating the strain on public funds.

As a response, Karebe Gold Mining Company in Chemelil/Chemase Ward in Tindiret Sub County is embracing the PPP model which has seen the company construct a new hospital facility at Kibisem Dispensary.

Yesterday, the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation hosted officials from Karebe Gold Mining Company. The discussions revolved around strengthening partnership with the company and the handover of the facility to the county government.

Emmy Cheruiyot – Karebe HR/Liaison Officer

Constructing resilient healthcare systems necessitates collaborative endeavours from both the public and private sectors.

David Sum – Karebe

The Karebe PPP model enables the private sector to bring independent and in-house domain experts to develop successful organisations, by properly utilising insights, skills and technology which can is crucial in rehabilitating the healthcare infrastructure.

Present at the meeting were Emmy Cheruiyot – HR & Liaisons Officer – Karebe Gold Mine, David Sum – Karebe Gold Mine, Henry Muge – CBA Chairperson – Karebe Gold Mine, Nicholas Bittok – ChairpersonChairperson – Kibisem Dispensary and Jane Tanui Committee Member Kibisem Dispensary.

The County Government of Nandi strives to ensure adequate budget allocation to the Department of Health and Sanitation. However, in the wake of limited fiscal space, we are working to prioritize initiatives that promote wellness and disease prevention, aiming to reduce healthcare costs and ensure sufficient staffing at health facilities. Additionally, we are investing in local health facilities to discourage bypassing community-level centers, thereby easing congestion at higher-level facilities.

The Deputy Governor H.E Dr Yulita Cheruiyot today presided over the launch of the Nandi County Health Sector Financing and Oversight of Health Funds Report in Chepkemel, Tindiret Ward. This collaborative effort involving the County Government of Nandi, Christian Aid-Kenya and National Taxpayers Association focuses on analyzing health sector financing and budget oversight. The initiative aims to empower communities in Nandi County to actively engage in managing health resources, promoting transparency, accountability, and an inclusive approach to health financing.

The event was attended by the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech, Tindiret Ward MCA Hon. Paul Birech, Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation Fredrick Kiptum, National Taxpayers Association County Coordinator Irine Otieno, Christian Aid-Kenya representative Bob Kikuyu and other distinguished guests.

Collaboration and involving stakeholders are very important for making sure that health policies are carried out well. This is because it makes sure that different points of views are taken into account and that solutions are made to fit the needs of all stakeholders.

PS Mary Muthoni

Earlier today, the Ministry of Health (MoH) convened an inception meeting to develop Kenya’s Human Resources for Health Policy.

The purpose of the meeting was to seek stakeholders input, build consensus and develop a road map for a National Human Resources for Health (HRH) Policy.

Ruth Koech, CECM Health & Sanitation

In her opening statement, the Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni highlighted the policy’s goal to streamline the health workforce across demand, production, supply, and utilization. It aims to project current and future HRH needs, aligning with population requirements to ensure a skilled, well-distributed, and motivated workforce for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

She said the meeting served as an opportunity for stakeholders to make inputs into the documents which will inform & advise the Ministry in addressing HRH challenges.

The meeting was attended by the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech who’s also the Vice Chairperson Health CECMs Caucus, stakeholders from the Ministry of Labour, Council of Governors, Public Service Commission, Commission for University Education, health regulators, and development partners.

The discussions were held in plenary sessions and thematic groups to deliberate on and seek consensus on the proposed policy areas and draft documents. The policy areas for discussion focused on, inter alia: governance for HRH, production and management of HRH, Partnership, advocacy and resource mobilization. Outcome of the meeting will foster agreement on the policy direction and strategies for HRH development and management.

Other areas were; use of data for decision making from training , internship, practice of healthcare workers, Telemedicine, Finance and appropriate budgeting, service delivery for a dynamic health need changes. Longer life expectancy, NCDs new technology and modern practice of medicine.

Looking into the future, there’s need for a competitive workforce that is globally competent and sustainable, an all inclusive HRH in all cadres, proper regulation standards and quality of care delivery.

Welfare support for staff, policy that has a Multisectral approach to reduce in efficiency and duplication, address mistmatched training verses county needsand quality of training to meet global trends.

The CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech has pleaded with parents to ensure their children were vaccinated regularly.

“Vaccine refusal endangers everyone, not just the unvaccinated children. Thus, you must prioritise the health and wellbeing of your kids by taking them to the nearest clinic or healthcare provider to ensure that are up-to-date with vaccination,” she said.

She was speaking during an unscheduled visit to Biribiriet, Lelmokwo, Sigot, SDA Kaikat, Cheptil, Kabiemit dispesaries and Chepterwai Nyayo Hospital.

Children below the age of five years are particularly vulnerable to diseases as their immunity is not yet fully developed to fight infections.

The CEC Member also called on parents to accompany their sick children to hospital who are seeking medication. “Parents should take responsibility and accompany their young children while seeking medication. They should be there to give consent and know what’s ailing their children,” she noted.

Cancer patients in Nandi are getting a supporting hand with the launch of Nandi Cancer Survivors Support Group at an event presided over by H. E the Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Cheruiyot.

The Cancer Survivors Support Group was formed by a group of 120 cancer survivors in the county with the support from the County Department of Health through the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital Oncology Unit.

The support group will serve as a welcoming space for cancer patients and survivors in the county, enabling them to engage in a close-knit community, where individuals share their personal experiences.

According to the group, cancer patients and survivors often face cognitive and emotional decline. They experience lack of attention, slow processing speed, memory dysfunctions, loneliness, anxiety and distress among other things. These deficits have a substantial impact on their well-being and quality of life.

The support group will be a platform that will provide patients and survivors with the opportunity to get moral support from people who are actually going through the same situation, or people who have great knowledge and experience in providing emotional and psychological support.

This group aims to instil persistence and hope in breast cancer patients, while providing them with all types of assistance needed. Group members will be able to set and edit goals as a means of coping with their difficulties.

The aim of the group is to educate its patients. The support group will correct misconceptions and myths about cancer and cancer-related treatments that could cause confusion. It acts as a hub for fact-checking, demystifying incorrect messages, and explaining the truth.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Cheruiyot said “As a county government, we are committed to enhancing access to cancer screenings and treatments for our residents. While we strive to bring these services closer, we also encourage our residents to utilize the oncology center at Kapsabet County Referral Hospital for comprehensive care and specialized treatment options.”

“Together, we celebrate life, inspire hope, and reaffirm that no one has to face cancer alone,” she added.

Stressing on the importance of the Cancer Support Group, the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech said, “Cancer diagnosis and treatment is an overwhelming process for the patients and their loved ones. The treatment of cancer is a journey right from the diagnosis to treatment and even after survival. Hence, this cancer support group is extremely helpful for patients to get motivated and inspired every step of the way. With this support group, we aim to combat cancer jointly by encouraging the patient and their families, and friends to be courageous and positive during the treatment process. At Kapsabet Oncology, we are committed to offering best clinical expertise, and service excellence for our patients in the County.”

Present at the event were the head Kapsabet Oncology Unit Patrick Kenei, Cancer Survivors and patients, among other senior department of health officials.

The 21st Health Sector Intergovernmental Consultative Forum was held at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi.

Presiding over the Forum, Principal Secretary State Department for Public Health & Professional Standards Mary Muthoni emphasized the forum’s importance in fostering collaboration and communication across different government levels and with partners.

The forum brought together stakeholders from National and County Health Departments, development partners, implementation partners, and the private sector to address key health sector challenges.

Speaking during the forum, the Acting Chairperson for Health CECMs caucus Ruth Koech noted that the forum presented a significant step towards achieving UHC, ensuring equitable and accessible health services across the country.

“Let us leverage this moment of unparalleled opportunity to forge a moreintegrated, responsive, and equitable health system. By addressing these critical issuescollaboratively, we can transform our healthcare landscape for the better,” said Ruth.

Key topics discussed included intergovernmental health issues, sharing best practices in health service delivery, and providing updates on Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Discussions focused on policy alignment and innovative health solutions to enhance nationwide health services.