Kenya has made significant progress in its healthcare sector since independence. Nevertheless, many Kenyans, particularly those in impoverished communities residing in informal settlements, continue to grapple with daunting healthcare challenges.
Urban slum residents face adverse health conditions, primarily stemming from two key factors: the lack of education and, consequently, awareness, and the reluctance to forego a day’s wage to access the nearest medical facility. These issues are further exacerbated by subpar sanitation and living conditions. Health disparities among the underprivileged persist, largely unaddressed. Consequently, poor maternal health affects entire families, resulting in child malnutrition and preventable deaths.
The neglect of even the most basic preventive medical treatment often escalates into severe ailments and, tragically, deaths. The pressing need of the hour calls for a two-pronged approach: firstly, bringing quality healthcare services directly to the doorsteps of those in need, and secondly, promoting healthcare awareness and modern healthcare-seeking behaviours among the underprivileged.
In this context, a mobile healthcare service delivery system stands as the most pragmatic solution. In line with this vision, the Eliud Owalo Foundation is actively working with other organizations to establish mobile clinics within informal settlement areas. Our unique mobile hospital program is designed to address the issues of mobility, accessibility, and the availability of primary healthcare, with a special emphasis on the well-being of children and women, both in urban slums and remote rural regions.
In addition, the foundation is collaborating with multiple organizations to conduct medical camps in urban slums, aimed at providing immediate relief and support to those in need.
At the Eliud Owalo Foundation, we are committed to closing healthcare gaps in our communities, promoting health and well-being, and paving the way for prosperity through accessible and comprehensive healthcare solutions.
Our Patron Eliud Owalo was honoured to officially launch the Free Medical Camp at Sega in Ugenya Constituency, Siaya County. The camp, sponsored by the Eliud Owalo Foundation, and supported by incredible partners and friends, provided essential medical services to about 6000 people from the local community.
During the launch, the patron was accompanied by among others, Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health; Dr. Hezron Omollo, Technical Advisor in the Ministry of Health; KMTC Director Kelly Oluoch; Dr. Steve Kathaka of National Syndemic Diseases Control Council; Dr. Gabriel Ouma and other distinguished doctors.
Also prevent were CAS Eng. Nicholas Gumbo; KIMC Chairman Charles Owino; Chairman of Lake Basin Development Authority Waore Dianga; LVSWWDA Director Millicent Oduor; Collins Olemo and Bishop Eng. Calleb Olali, among others.
The Free Medical Camp brought together over 50 doctors, specialists, and medical consultants, providing essential treatment for hypertension, diabetes, malaria, eye diseases, gynaecology, various cancers, and general ailments, among other health concerns.
Noteworthy services included cervical cancer screenings, dental services, optical services, COVID vaccinations, distribution of free sanitary pads, and voluntary male circumcision services.
Our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors NHIF, Kenya Dental Association; National Syndemic Diseases Control Council, Sega Mission Hospital, RFH Healthcare, AHF Kenya, KMET, KMPDU, KMTC, and Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya.
Together, we’re making a positive difference in the lives of the community.
#HealthcareForAll #CommunityFirst #MedicalCampSuccess
