Kiambu County in collaboration with other development partners has organized a free eye and ear medical camp in Nachu and Ndeiya wards.
The outreach programme, organised by the County in partnership with the Kenya Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Sauveteurs Sans Frontières (Rescuers Without Borders) of Israel, targeting over 500 school-going children in a bid to expand access to specialised healthcare services.
The camp provided screening and treatment for eye and hearing conditions, with services extended to all residents seeking medical attention. In addition, 40 local healthcare workers received training in emergency and rescue response to strengthen the county’s capacity to handle medical emergencies.
County Director of Health Dr. Hillary Kagwa said the initiative was designed to bring essential services closer to communities.
“By taking these services directly to our communities, we detect health conditions early, prevent complications and ensure residents receive timely treatment. This approach saves lives while reducing the burden on families and health facilities,” he said.
The programme was supported by Nachu Ward MCA Hon Fr George Njoroge Kimani and Ndeiya Ward MCA Nelson Munga Mbuiyu. The visiting medical team, led by organizer Ms Myriam Akiva, comprised 12 doctors and specialists in optometry and hearing care who worked alongside county health officials.
County Executive Committee Member for Health Dr. Elias Maina said the partnership underscored the county’s commitment to leveraging international collaboration to improve healthcare delivery.
“This collaboration with the Kenyan Embassy in Israel and Sauveteurs Sans Frontières shows what can be achieved through cross-border partnerships. We are not only treating patients but also building sustainable healthcare capacity by training our workers in emergency response,” he said.
The camp began on February 9 at Kamangu Orthodox Church in Nachu Ward, Kikuyu Sub-County, before moving to Lusigetti Primary School. On February 11, services were offered at Nderu Primary School in Ndeiya Ward, Limuru Sub-County, and concluded on February 12 at Thigio Primary School.
Residents who benefited from the services welcomed the initiative. Salome Wacuka from Nachu Ward said she was grateful for receiving eye treatment.
“I am very happy today because I have received treatment for my eyes. I really appreciate the county government for remembering us,” she said.
Zipporah, a resident of Ndeiya Ward, said she sought treatment for ear complications.
“I came in today seeking medical attention for my ears. I have been examined and had them cleaned. Now my ears are clear,” she said.
County authorities confirmed that temporary practice licences for the visiting foreign doctors were processed through the Cabinet Secretary for Health’s office and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Officials described the medical camp as a demonstration of effective collaboration between the national government, county government and international partners in delivering accessible and preventive healthcare services to underserved communities.
By Kevin Karanja
