News Categories: Health and Sanitation

CHEMUSWO – Hundreds of residents of Chemuswo today received a major boost to their healthcare as the Beyond Zero medical outreach program rolled into the area, offering a wide range of essential services at no cost.

The event, aimed at bridging the healthcare access gap, saw a steady stream of men, women, and children turning up at the Chemuswo Dispensary grounds to benefit from the initiative. The comprehensive medical camp provided crucial services that are often difficult for those in remote areas to access regularly.

Services offered included vaccinations for children and adults, Antenatal Care (ANC) for expectant mothers, and HIV/AIDS screening and counselling. Additionally, residents had access to general outpatient services for common ailments, nutritional assessments and advice, and psychological counselling services. A significant highlight was the provision of cancer screening, a critical service in the early detection and prevention of the disease.

Beyond Zero Clinic County Coordinator, Nancy Chepkirui, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming turnout.

“We are incredibly thankful to the residents of Chemuswo for turning up in large numbers for this event,” Ms. Chepkirui said. “The core aim of the Beyond Zero outreach programs is to take these essential health services directly to the people in far-to-reach places, where hospitals are often many kilometers away and access is a challenge.”

She emphasized that such initiatives are vital for promoting preventive healthcare and ensuring that no one is left behind in the county’s quest for better health outcomes.

The residents expressed their relief and appreciation for the free medical camp, noting that it saved them the time and cost of traveling to distant health facilities. Many highlighted the importance of having services like cancer screening and counselling brought closer to them, services they might not otherwise prioritize due to logistical and financial constraints.

Today’s outreach in Chemuswo is part of the broader Beyond Zero initiative’s continuous efforts to improve healthcare equity and bring quality medical services directly to the doorsteps of vulnerable communities across the county.

Governor Stephen Sang has initiated strategic discussions to guide the future of HIV/AIDS services within Nandi County, emphasizing a collaborative, data-driven approach to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability.

The Governor convened a high-level meeting with representatives from the Henry Johnson Foundation Medical Research Institute, the national HIV/AIDS program’s implementing partner, to align on plans for the next six months. The talks were centered on a potential transition of program responsibilities, in line with recent guidance from the U.S. Government.

Key areas of discussion included the strategic transitioning of Human Resources for Health, the seamless integration of HIV services into the county’s broader healthcare delivery systems, and the critical need for continuous capacity building and training for healthcare workers across all facilities.

In his address, Governor Sang underscored that a successful transition requires a fundamental redesign of the program.

“For the HIV/AIDS program to remain effective and impactful, it must be redesigned collaboratively at both the national and county levels,” Governor Sang stated. “We cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all model. Our strategies must be informed by specific regional data and the unique needs of our people to ensure no one is left behind.”

The meeting highlighted the county’s commitment to taking greater ownership of the health initiative, focusing on creating a resilient system that is fully embedded within the existing public health infrastructure.

The high-level delegation present at the meeting signals the importance the County Government places on a smooth transition. Attendees included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot, County Secretary Dr. Francis Sang, CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Dr. Angeline Kirui, Chief Officer for Health Fredrick Kiptum, and Director for Health Dr. Christine Chebet, among other senior county officials.

The outcomes of this meeting are expected to form the basis for a detailed work plan, ensuring that the gains made in the fight against HIV/AIDS are sustained and strengthened under county leadership.

The County Government of Nandi is relentlessly advancing its ambitious mission to revolutionize the healthcare landscape, marking a new chapter in its commitment to superior medical services for all residents.

In a powerful demonstration of hands-on leadership, Governor Stephen Sang yesterday conducted an inspection tour of the rapidly progressing construction of a new Outpatient Unit at Kobujoi Health Centre in Aldai Sub County. This project is a cornerstone of the county’s broader strategy to dismantle barriers to quality healthcare.

The modern facility is poised to be a game-changer for the community. Upon completion, it will dramatically decongest existing ward and nearby facilities, streamline patient flow for greater efficiency, and, most importantly, deliver specialized medical care directly to the doorsteps of locals. This targeted upgrade is expected to profoundly benefit vulnerable groups, including mothers seeking maternal care, children, and the elderly.

Speaking at the site, Governor Sang reinforced his administration’s unwavering focus on health. “This is not just about building structures; it is about building a healthier future for every citizen of Nandi,” he stated. “Our investment in robust healthcare infrastructure is the very foundation upon which we will achieve universal health coverage, ensuring that quality medical services are a guaranteed right for all, not a privilege for a few.”

This development at Kobujoi Health Centre is a vivid testament to the county government’s proactive and transformative agenda, solidifying its pledge to elevate the well-being and prosperity of Nandi residents through a world-class health sector.

Nandi County wrapped up its intensive 10-day Measles-Rubella (MR) and Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) vaccination campaign on a resoundingly positive note, achieving an impressive overall coverage rate of 92% for both critical vaccines. The campaign, which ran from July 5th to July 14th, 2025, successfully reached hundreds of thousands of children across the county’s six sub-counties.

Targeting children primarily between 9 months and 14 years for MR and 9 months to 14 years for TCV, the campaign mobilized healthcare teams across Aldai, Chesumei, Emgwen, Mosop, Nandi Hills, and Tinderet to protect the county’s future generation from these preventable diseases.

Outstanding Overall Performance:

√ Measles-Rubella (MR): Against a target of 105,680 children, dedicated teams vaccinated 96,736, achieving 92% coverage.

√ Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV): Surpassing the ambitious target of 346,645, the campaign delivered 320,026 doses, also hitting the 92% mark countywide.

Sub-County Spotlight:

The campaign saw strong participation across all regions, with notable performances:

• TCV Coverage Leaders:

√ Chesumei & Nandi Hills: Both sub-counties led the pack with exceptional 96% TCV coverage.

√ Mosop: Achieved a robust 94%.

√ Aldai: Secured 91%.

√ Emgwen: Reached 90%.

√ Tinderet: Achieved 87%.

• MR Coverage Highlights:

√ Aldai: Achieved the highest MR coverage at 96%.

√ Tinderet: Performed strongly with 95% MR coverage.

√ Mosop: Recorded 87% coverage for MR.

The near-universal coverage in many areas, particularly Chesumei and Nandi Hills for TCV and Aldai for MR, demonstrates the effectiveness of the campaign’s planning, community mobilization, and the dedication of frontline workers. While Tinderet faced the greatest challenge in reaching its TCV target (87%), its strong MR performance (95%) indicates significant engagement.

A Collective Effort for Child Health:

The County Government of Nandi extends its deepest gratitude to the entire healthcare workforce – vaccinators, mobilizers, Community Health Promoters (CHPs), community health volunteers, supervisors, data clerks, and logistical support staff – whose tireless dedication made this success possible.

Crucially, the County also expresses heartfelt appreciation to the residents of Nandi County, Parents and guardians who brought their children for vaccination, The clergy for their vital advocacy and support, School management for facilitating access, All community stakeholders who contributed to this vital public health exercise.

The CHPs played an especially pivotal role in community mobilization and education.

“This remarkable 92% achievement is a testament to the tireless dedication of our healthcare teams – the vaccinators, mobilizers, community health volunteers, supervisors, data clerks, and logistical support staff,” stated the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Dr Angeline Kirui. “Braving diverse terrains and working long hours, they were instrumental in bringing these life-saving vaccines closer to our children. We extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of them. This success is a giant leap towards safeguarding the health and future of Nandi County’s children against Measles, Rubella, and Typhoid.”

The high coverage rates significantly bolster the county’s herd immunity against these diseases, reducing the risk of outbreaks and protecting the most vulnerable. The campaign’s data will now be crucial for identifying any remaining pockets of under-vaccinated children for targeted follow-up, ensuring no child is left behind in Nandi’s pursuit of optimal health.

Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to continue accessing routine immunization services for their children at all health facilities to maintain this vital protection.

In a significant move to enhance service delivery within its healthcare sector, the Nandi County Public Service Board has successfully conducted a comprehensive induction training program targeting newly recruited Laboratory Technicians and Drivers. The event, underscores the county’s commitment to equipping its frontline health personnel with the necessary skills and ethos for effective performance.

The training was officially presided over by Mr. Daniel Mwogoi, a member of the Nandi County Public Service Board, alongside Ms. Philister Maiyo, the Director of Administration and Human Resource Management. Their presence highlighted the administration’s priority on integrating new staff seamlessly into the county’s public service framework.

The event garnered strong support from the county’s health leadership. In attendance were, Dr. Angeline Kirui, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Mr. Frederick Kiptum, Chief Officer for Health and Directors from various units within the Health and Sanitation docket, Human Resource Management Officer, County Ambulance coordinator and County lab coordinator and coordinators drawn from the six sub counties.

Setting the tone for the training, CECM Dr. Angeline Kirui delivered a powerful opening address. She issued a compelling call to action for the newly inducted staff, urging them to embrace hard work and unity as fundamental pillars for the department’s success.

“Work hard in unity for the betterment of this department and the county at large,” Dr. Kirui emphasized. She challenged the laboratory technicians and drivers to be proactive contributors, stating, “Give ideas, propose strategies to improve our healthcare services. Engage in research, write proposals – let us make progress and grow together.”

Dr. Kirui’s message clearly positioned the new recruits as vital partners in Nandi County’s journey towards enhanced healthcare delivery, encouraging them to think beyond their immediate roles and contribute to systemic improvement.

Crucially, the induction also served as a platform to communicate the county’s evolving approach to staff motivation and career progression. Attendees were informed that promotion within the county service will now be firmly based on performance, as measured through regular appraisals.

Furthermore, the county administration announced concrete plans to reward employees demonstrating exceptional hard work and dedication. This performance-linked reward system signals a shift towards recognizing and incentivizing excellence within the public service.

The induction training for laboratory technicians and drivers represents a strategic investment by Nandi County. Laboratory staff are critical for accurate diagnosis and disease surveillance, while drivers ensure reliable transportation of patients, samples, medicines, and equipment and emergency response – all essential for a functional healthcare system.

By providing this foundational training and simultaneously outlining a clear path for recognition and advancement based on merit, Nandi County aims to foster a motivated, skilled, and unified workforce dedicated to improving health outcomes for its residents. The messages of teamwork, innovation, and performance-driven growth delivered by Dr. Kirui and reinforced by the new policies set a clear direction for the department’s future.

Nandi County Governor, H.E. Stephen Sang, has issued a renewed and passionate appeal to residents, emphasizing that registration with the Social Health Authority (SHA) remains an absolute priority for the county’s healthcare future. His call comes as Nandi strives to significantly boost its current SHA enrollment rate.

Speaking at the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital at the countywide launch of Measles Rubella and Typhoid Conjugate vaccination drive, Governor Sang revealed that Nandi County’s SHA registration currently stands at 47%, placing it at position 11 nationally. While acknowledging this progress, the Governor stressed that this figure is far from sufficient and urged every eligible resident yet to register to do so without further delay.

“SHA is not just another program; it is a groundbreaking and revolutionary initiative,” Governor Sang declared. “It represents a fundamental shift in how healthcare is financed and delivered in Kenya. I am confident that SHA is the key that will ultimately turn around service provision in the health sector, making quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all Kenyans.”

Highlighting the tangible benefits already being realized, Governor Sang pointed to Kapsabet County Referral Hospital as a shining local example. “Look no further than our own Kapsabet facility,” he stated. “The hospital’s services now operate 100% on the SHA framework. This demonstrates the system’s viability and its direct impact on enhancing healthcare delivery at our most critical institution.”

The Governor expressed deep gratitude to the national government for driving this transformative agenda. He specifically thanked President William Ruto’s administration and Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale for their commitment and efforts in making sure that SHA is working and laying the foundation for universal health coverage (UHC) in Kenya.

Governor Sang’s message was clear: achieving widespread SHA registration is crucial for Nandi County to fully benefit from this revolutionary system. He called upon community leaders, administrators, and every household to actively participate in mobilizing residents to register. Increased enrollment, he argued, is essential to unlock greater resources, improve healthcare infrastructure, expand services, and ensure financial protection for families facing health challenges across the county.

The push continues to move Nandi from its current 11th national position towards the top, ensuring its residents are fully integrated into Kenya’s new era of healthcare under the Social Health Authority. Residents are encouraged to visit their nearest registration point or utilize available online platforms to sign up for SHA.

In a move to protect its youngest residents, the County Government of Nandi, spearheaded by the Department of Health and Sanitation, has officially launched a comprehensive countywide vaccination campaign targeting Measles-Rubella and Typhoid.

H.E Governor Stephen Sang presided over the rollout event today at the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital. He was joined by key health leaders including the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Angeline Kirui, Chief Officer Frederick Kiptum and the Director of Health Dr Christine Chebet, and other senior health officials underscoring the administration’s commitment to the initiative.

The ambitious campaign has a clear two-pronged approach: Measles-Rubella Vaccine: Administered to children aged 9 to 59 months and Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV): Administered to a broader age group of children from 9 months up to 14 years.

Running from today, July 5th to July 14th, 2025, this intensive 10-day exercise aims to create a robust shield against these potentially life-threatening, yet entirely vaccine-preventable, diseases. Nandi County has set an ambitious target of vaccinating over 452,325 children during this period, striving for nothing less than 100% coverage for both Measles-Rubella and Typhoid within the eligible groups.

Governor Sang and health officials issued a strong appeal to all parents, guardians, and caregivers across Nandi County. “The health and future of our children are paramount,” Governor Sang stated during the launch. “These vaccines are safe, effective, and freely available. I urge every parent to take advantage of this crucial campaign and bring their eligible children for vaccination.”

Dr. Angeline Kirui emphasized the importance of community participation: “Achieving 100% coverage is vital to stop the spread of these diseases and protect every vulnerable child. We have mobilized our resources to make access easy and convenient.”

To ensure widespread access, vaccinations will be available at:

√ All public health facilities across the county.

√ Designated outreach sites within communities like Churches, Mosques and Social Halls.

√ Mobile vaccination teams visiting various locations – Barazas amd Markets.

Parents are encouraged to locate their nearest vaccination point and bring their children without delay.

Demonstrating the campaign’s immediate commencement, CECM Dr. Angeline Kirui later visited Cheribisi Primary School in Emgwen Sub-County and All Saints Kamoywo Primary School in Mosop Sub-County to personally oversee the vaccination exercise on its first day. Simultaneously, vaccinations were successfully launched at St. Mathews Maraba Primary School in Tinderet Sub-County, Aldai Boarding Primary School in Aldai Sub County, Kosirai Academy in Chesumei Sub County and Our Lady Of Peace Academy in Nandi Hills Sub County highlighting the campaign’s extensive reach across the county.

This coordinated mass vaccination drive represents a major public health investment by the County Government of Nandi, aiming to significantly reduce the burden of Measles, Rubella, and Typhoid and ensure a healthier future for its children.

The maternity ward of Kapsabet County Referral Hospital, the rhythm of life is constant — the cries of newborns, the steady pace of footsteps, and the calm, steady presence of nurses who serve as lifelines to mothers and babies alike. Their resilience is unmatched — remaining composed in emergencies, compassionate in loss, and tireless even after long shifts. These nurses embody strength, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to care.

These nurses, working long hours under intense pressure, are the unsung heroes of Nandi County’s health system. From managing complicated deliveries to providing emotional support to families, they carry the immense responsibility of bringing new life safely into the world — all while maintaining professionalism, empathy, and grace.

“There are days we don’t rest or even eat, but the joy of helping a mother through delivery keeps us going,” shared one nurse. “We do this out of passion and commitment.”

During the recent Nurses Week celebrations in Kapsabet, the County Government of Nandi recognized the dedication of these frontline workers under the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future.” The event echoed the global call to invest in nurses as a key pillar of resilient healthcare systems.

The celebration was graced by Dr. Lydia Kosgei, Deputy County Secretary, as the Chief Guest. In attendance were key leaders including Dr. Angeline Kirui – CECM for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Philemon Bureti – CECM for Administration, Public Service and ICT, Frederick Kiptum – Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Christine Jebet – County Director for Health, and Eric Rotich – County Nursing Officer. Also present were representatives from the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) and Midwives Welfare Association of Kenya (MWAK).

Dr. Angeline Kirui applauded nurses for their tireless service and reaffirmed the county’s dedication to strengthening healthcare. “Nurses are the backbone of our health system. Their work deserves more than just praise — it demands investment and support,” she said.

Chief Officer Frederick Kiptum emphasized the county’s efforts to ensure fair promotions, timely remuneration, and conducive working environments for all nurses, especially those serving in critical departments like maternity.

Deputy County Secretary Dr. Lydia Kosgei highlighted the increased budget allocation to the health sector under Governor Stephen Sang’s leadership. These reforms are aimed at improving health infrastructure, staffing, and service delivery across the county.

The event also provided a platform for nurses to share their experiences, challenges, and hopes. They called for better staffing, adequate tools, and more opportunities for professional growth — needs that, if addressed, would significantly improve maternal and newborn care.

As Nandi County honors its healthcare workforce, one truth stands clear: nurses are not just caregivers — they are the silent strength of our health system. Their hands welcome life, their presence comforts pain, and their commitment keeps hope alive for countless families.

In an effort to boost enrollment in the Taifa Care program, the Department of Health has deployed Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to remote areas of Nandi County to conduct sensitization and registration.

Nandi Hills Sub-County Public Health Officer, Samwel Bitok, emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure widespread access to healthcare coverage, particularly in underserved regions.

On Monday, the CHPs, working alongside the County Communications Unit, carried out a registration and awareness drive in Kapsimotwo Ward, Tinderet Constituency. The exercise benefited residents from Matema, Kibwari, Kapsimatwo, Underit, Cheptilil, Chematich, Morobi, and Kimng’eru villages.

The team visited local shopping centers and nearby schools, including Cheptilil and Underit Primary Schools, where they successfully registered 530 new beneficiaries.

This follows the recent nationwide mass registration campaign launched in Nandi by the Senior Economic Advisor to the President, Moses Kuria.

Residents praised the Nandi County Government for the initiative but appealed for additional CHPs in the ward. Currently, only Chepsire Location has active CHPs, while Chepsangor, Temso, and Kapsimatwo Locations remain underserved.

The exercise was attended by Assistant Chiefs Isaac Maiyo (Chematich Sub-Location) and Edwin Kering (Kibwareng Sub-Location), who supported the mobilization efforts.

The initiative underscores thecounty government’s commitment to achieving universal healthcare by ensuring even the most remote communities are enrolled in the Taifa Care program.

In a landmark move to enhance healthcare access for students, the County Government of Nandi has begun a mass registration drive for learners under the Taifa Care program. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the County Department of Health, seeks to provide comprehensive medical coverage to all students, ensuring they have access to essential healthcare services.

The registration exercise is being conducted with the support of community health promoters, who are assisting parents and guardians in enrolling eligible learners. The initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda, administered by the Social Health Authority (SHA), and aims to ensure that every student – including those in private institutions – has access to quality healthcare.

Speaking during a meeting with healthcare stakeholders, Moses Kuria, Senior Economic Advisor to the President emphasized the importance of the program, urging parents to ensure their children have the necessary documents for registration. “This initiative is crucial for securing a healthier future for Kenya’s learners,” he stated.

The registration drive has received strong backing from Nandi County officials, with key leaders overseeing the exercise at various primary schools. Deputy County Secretary Dr. Lydia Kosgei, Health and Sanitation CEC Member Dr. Angeline Kirui, Culture, Gender, and Social Welfare CEC Member Scolastica Tuwei, and Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation Fredrick Kiptum were present to monitor the process at Tegat, Township, and Kamobo Primary Schools.

Dr. Kirui reiterated the county’s commitment to ensuring no child is left behind in accessing healthcare. “By enrolling our learners in Taifa Care, we are not only safeguarding their health but also fostering a more productive learning environment,” she said.

The Taifa Care scheme covers a wide range of medical services, reducing the financial burden on families and ensuring that students can focus on their education without health-related interruptions.

Community health promoters remain on the ground to facilitate smooth registration, addressing any challenges and ensuring widespread participation.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage. By prioritizing the health of learners, Nandi County is setting a precedent for other regions to follow, reinforcing the government’s commitment to a healthier, more resilient future for all Kenyans.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and enroll their children in the Taifa Care program, securing their right to quality healthcare and a brighter tomorrow.

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