The Kitui County Ministry of Health and Sanitation, in collaboration with the Friends of Africa Missionary Endeavour (FAME) and the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB), has launched two impactful medical outreach programs aimed at enhancing healthcare access and combating cancer within the county.
The initiatives, which began last week in Kitui East Sub-County and are currently ongoing in Kitui South Sub-County, are a testament to the county’s commitment to public health.
Last week, the outreach program kicked off in Kitui East with a dynamic two-day event held in Kaayo village, in partnership with FAME. The program provided a wide range of healthcare services, including general consultations, eye examinations, maternal and child health services, and health education sessions.
Led by CECM for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koki and Chief Officer for Public Health Lynn Kitwan, the initiative emphasized the importance of making healthcare accessible to all residents, particularly those in remote areas.
Building on the success of the Kitui East initiative, the outreach program has now shifted focus to Kitui South Sub-County, where it is conducting a week-long campaign centered on free cancer screenings, in collaboration with CMMB.
Targeting hospitals in Ikanga, Mutomo, and Ikutha, the program also extends its reach to remote locations such as Kwa Song’e village. Screenings for breast, cervical, and prostate cancers are being provided, marking a significant step towards early cancer detection and treatment in the region.
The ongoing program in Kitui South has been met with widespread community support and participation. Health officials have underscored the importance of preventive healthcare and early diagnosis, with Chief Officer Kitwan noting, “Early detection of cancer is crucial for effective treatment. This program is vital for raising awareness and providing necessary screenings to our community.”
Additionally, a similar cancer screening exercise was conducted for Kitui County staff at the Kitui County Referral Hospital. This initiative reflects the administration’s comprehensive approach to healthcare, ensuring that both the community and county employees receive essential health services.
CECM Koki also reiterated that Governor Malombe’s commitment to providing quality health services. She affirmed that the outreach program is part of the administration’s broader strategy to ensure all residents have access to high-quality healthcare services. The program will offer a range of services, including general consultations, eye examinations, maternal and child health services, and health education sessions.
Stephen N. Kameti, UK Mission Board Representative and Field Leader at FAME, praised the collaborative efforts and the impact these programs have on the community. “Partnerships like this are crucial for improving public health outcomes.By working together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of the people we serve,” Kameti remarked.
The outreach programs will continue across all eight sub-counties in Kitui, demonstrating the county’s unwavering commitment to public health and ensuring comprehensive healthcare services reach every resident.
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