The Kiambu County Government, through its Department of Health Services, has rolled out a countywide campaign to enhance child health through Vitamin A supplementation and deworming treatment.
Running throughout June, the initiative aims to reach over 12,000 children under the age of five across all 12 sub-counties. Specifically, 12,359 children aged between 6 and 59 months are targeted for Vitamin A supplementation to boost immunity, support growth, and promote healthy vision.
Simultaneously, children aged one year and above will receive deworming tablets to protect them from parasitic infections, a common cause of malnutrition in young children.
“We are committed to improving the health and immunity of our children across all sub-counties,” said Faith Munoru, a sub-county nutritionist in Kiambu.
“Preventing Vitamin A deficiency is critical, as it can lead to serious health problems like impaired vision and increased vulnerability to infections. We encourage all caregivers and parents to visit nearby health facilities or outreach centers to ensure their children receive these important treatments.”
Community Health Promoters (CHPs), supervised by Sub-County Health Assistants (SHAs), will be responsible for administering the supplements and deworming tablets. Distribution will take place in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers and through door-to-door outreach efforts.
“We’re working closely with ECD teachers, local leaders, and using household registers to reach every eligible child,” said Eunice Muthoni, a Community Health Promoter at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital. “We educate parents about the benefits of Vitamin A, administer the dose at their homes, and provide guidance on nutrition and hygiene.”
Children aged 6 to 11 months will receive their supplements at health facilities, while those under 5 months will be dewormed specifically at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital.
County officials emphasise that this month-long campaign is part of broader efforts to prevent avoidable illnesses and support early childhood development.
“I was grateful when health workers came to my doorstep,” said Cecilia Wamuyu, a resident of Ting’ang’a Ward. “As a mother, I’m always concerned about my child’s nutrition. We don’t always have access to fruits and vegetables, so the supplement really helps.”
Residents are encouraged to support the campaign and ensure eligible children receive treatment. For more information, families are advised to contact their nearest health facility or the Kiambu County Department of Health Services.
By Vivian Makungu and James Guchu
