West Pokot County has intensified its fight against tuberculosis (TB),urging residents to seek early screening and support those undergoing treatment, as the county joined the rest of the world in commemorating World TB Day.
The event,held at Kabichbich Shopping Centre,brought together health officials,community members,and partners in a unified call to eliminate the disease,which continues to affect many households across the region.
Delivering a speech on behalf of the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation,Ms,Clare Parklea, the County Director of Medical Services, Dr.Solomon Kokwo, emphasized the importance of early detection in saving lives.
He urged residents experiencing symptoms such as persistent cough,night sweats,or unexplained weight loss to visit the nearest health facility for screening without delays.
He also cautioned against stigmatizing TB patients,stressing that the disease is both preventable and curable.
“Let us support those undergoing treatment and encourage them to complete their medication.TB is curable, and together we can defeat it,” he said.
In her message,Ms. Parklea described World TB Day as a time for reflection,remembrance, and renewed commitment in the fight against the disease.
She noted that the day honors those who have lost their lives,celebrates survivors, and reinforces the resolve to achieve a TB-free West Pokot.
She highlighted this year’s theme, ‘‘Yes! We Can End TB:Led by Government and Counties,Powered by Communities,’’ noting that while the government provides leadership and resources,the real fight against TB is won at the community level.
“The battle is fought in our homes,markets,schools, and places of worship.Communities must take an active role in prevention,early detection, and supporting those affected,” she said.
Ms.Parklea acknowledged that tuberculosis remains a significant public health concern in the county but pointed to notable progress made in recent years.
Theses included straightening partnerships with the national government and implementing partners,expanded community outreach programmes,improved screening , and enhanced integration of TB and HIV services.
Under the leadership of Governor Simon Kachapin,the county has rolled out free TB screening and treatment services across public health facilities.
Additionally,the introduction of AI-enabled digital X-ray technology has improved early and accurate diagnosis,particularly in remote areas.
Community health promoters have also played a key role in bringing services closer to residents through household visits and awareness campaigns.
Despite these gains,Ms.Parklea noted persistent challenges,including occasional shortages of diagnostic supplies,limited awareness in some communities, and stigma surrounding TB.
She called on local leaders,elders, and influencers to champion awareness efforts and promote positive health-seeking behavior,while urging healthcare workers to continue serving with dedication and compassion.
“You are the backbone of our health system and critical in saving lives,” she told frontline health workers,whom she described as “heroes in white coats.”
Kipkomo Sub-County health official Roda Lodio warned that TB spread easily.especially among close contacts,and stressed the importance of seeking medical attention at the earliest sign of symptoms.
“In the past,people were advised to seek care after coughing for two weeks.Now,we encouraged anyone with even a one-day cough to visit a health facility for screening,” she said,adding that early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Residents who benefited from free screening services welcomed the initiative.
Simon Kapel said he had struggled with a lung condition for two years and hoped to finally receive proper treatment.
Sheila Cherotich expressed relief after accessing free screening,noting she had been experiencing chest pain and breathing difficulties.
Health officials reiterated that eliminating TB is achievable through collective action,emphasizing that the county has tools,workforce, and political will to end the disease.
“A healthy county is a wealthy county,” Ms.Parklea said.“ Together,we can eliminate tuberculosis,”
She also thanked key partners,including Kenya red Cross, Amref Health Africa, HealthRight Kenya,Centre for Health Solutions Kenya,NEPHAK, Bible Faith Church (BCF) Medical Services,Cherangany Hospital,Shalom Springs Hospital, Toror Pharmacy, and other stakeholders for their support in planning and commemorating World TB Day,as well as their continued contribution to health and development initiative in the county.
By Anthony Melly
