Vihiga County Governor Dr. Wilber Otichillo has opened the 4th East, Central and Southern Africa College of Nursing and Midwifery (ECSACONM) Kenya Chapter Conference at Sosa Cottages, marking a significant moment for the nursing profession in the region.
The two-day conference, which brought together nursing and midwifery professionals from across East, Central, and Southern Africa, focused on enhancing the role of nurses and midwives in primary health care and community health services.
In his keynote address, Dr. Otichillo lauded the critical contribution of nurses and midwives to the health sector, pledging his unwavering support to the profession.
He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the nursing and midwifery workforce, promising to present their grievances to the Council of Governors and to advocate for universal health coverage.
“As a country and region, we must recognise the central role of nurses and midwives in delivering quality health care. I will continue to champion your concerns at the national level,” the governor said.
On behalf of the Council of Governors, Dr. Otichillo outlined four sub-themes guiding the conference deliberations: promoting leadership and governance, strengthening reproductive health, fostering research and innovation, and motivating health workers.
The event was attended by prominent health leaders, including Dr. Justus Kiplagat, President of the Uganda Nurses and Midwifery Council; Vihiga County CECM for Health Nicholas Kitungulu; and senior nursing professionals from across the participating regions.
The conference aimed at advancing nursing and midwifery practice in Africa.
By Ian Mugamangi and Sylvester Muhadi
