GOVERNOR LEADS NANDI RESIDENTS IN MARKING WORLD TB DAY
H.E Governor Stephen Sang led residents and health stakeholders in marking World Tuberculosis Day at Meteitei Sub County Hospital in Tinderet Sub County, where he officially commissioned a modern AI-powered TB X-ray machine – the first of its kind in the county.
The event, held under the global theme “Yes We Can End TB,” underscored the county government’s commitment to bolstering healthcare infrastructure and accelerating efforts to eliminate tuberculosis.
In his address, Governor Sang described the new artificial intelligence-enabled X-ray machine as a transformative milestone in Nandi’s healthcare delivery. He noted that the advanced technology will significantly enhance early detection and diagnosis of TB, reducing wait times and improving accuracy for patients.
“This machine represents a leap forward in our fight against tuberculosis. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, we are ensuring that our people receive timely and precise diagnoses. This is how we translate our commitment to universal health coverage into tangible outcomes,” said Governor Sang.
The event brought together a host of county leaders and health officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation Dr. Angeline Kirui, Chief Officer for Health Fredrick Kiptum, Chief Officer for Water Jonah Tireito, Tinderet Ward MCA Hon. Paul Birech, and Songhor/Soba Ward MCA Hon. Raymond Chelule. Director for Health Dr. Christine Chebet was also in attendance, alongside other medical personnel and administrators.
Dr. Angeline Kirui, the CECM for Health, highlighted that the AI X-ray machine is a critical addition to the county’s diagnostic capabilities. She emphasized that the technology aligns with national and global strategies to end TB by enabling health workers to screen large numbers of residents swiftly, particularly in rural and high-risk areas.
Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot called on residents to utilize the new equipment and to remain vigilant about TB symptoms, noting that the disease remains a public health concern but is entirely curable with early intervention.
Adding a powerful personal voice to the occasion, TB champion Sharon Chepchumba shared her journey from infection to recovery. Having suffered from tuberculosis and successfully completed her treatment, Chepchumba now stands as a testament to the disease’s curability. She urged residents to prioritize their health by going for frequent check-ups, emphasizing that early detection saves lives.
“I am a living proof that TB can be treated. If you find that you have TB, do not hide – come out and get treated. The services are free, and with the new machine here, there is no reason to suffer in silence,” Chepchumba told the gathering, drawing applause from attendees.
Leaders present reaffirmed their commitment to supporting health sector innovations, with area MCA Hon. Paul Birech lauding the county administration for choosing Meteitei Sub County Hospital as the host facility for the cutting-edge equipment.
The World TB Day celebration served as both a call to action and a celebration of progress, as Nandi County continues to position itself at the forefront of medical innovation in the region. Officials reiterated that with sustained investment and community partnership, the goal of ending TB is well within reach.