A major milestone in maternal healthcare has been achieved in West Pokot County after dozens of women and girls benefited from free fistula repair surgeries at Kapenguria County Referral Hospital.
The life-changing medical camp was made possible through a partnership between M-Pesa Foundation, Amref Health Africa, The Flying Doctors Society of Africa, Royal Media Services, Beyond Zero Campaign, and West Pokot County Government.
Lasting from February 9th to 13th, the charitable healthcare outreach aims not only to treat women suffering from obstetric fistula but also to establish Kapenguria County Referral Hospital as a permanent centre for fistula treatment in the region.
Speaking after visiting the ward alongside Governor Simon Kachapin and partners, obstetrician, oncologist, and expert fistula surgeon Anthony Wanjala explained that obstetric fistula is a childbirth complication caused by prolonged obstructed labour.
He noted that when women are unable to access timely caesarean section services, oftentimes during home deliveries, they may suffer continuous leakages of urine and stool.
Beyond the medical condition, Dr Wanjala noted that fistula leads to severe stigma and social isolation.
“Many affected women are abandoned, hidden at home, or unable to afford transport to seek specialised care,” he further noted.
Dr Wanjala revealed that 35 women had already undergone successful corrective surgeries, with 36 more awaiting procedures.
He further revealed that about 50 percent of the patients are from West Pokot, while others travelled from neighbouring counties including Trans Nzoia, Turkana, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Nakuru, and even across the border in Uganda.
“The smiles on their faces after surgery show how important this intervention is,” he said.
Governor Simon Kachapin described the week as historic, noting that 71 women suffering from fistula were admitted for treatment.
He acknowledged that high rates of home births, early marriages, and the continued prevalence of FGM in some areas contribute to fistula cases in the county.
The governor committed to strengthening preventive measures and ensuring sustained medical camps rather than short-term interventions.
Kachapin emphasised that healthcare remains a top priority for the county government, with 35 percent of county revenue allocated to health services.
He urged families not to hide women suffering from fistula but instead encouraged them to seek treatment.
M-Pesa Foundation CEO Sitoyo Lopokoiyit said the programme aligns with the foundation’s focus on healthcare and education.
He described the initiative as critical in restoring dignity for women and enabling them to reintegrate into society.
“It is encouraging to see women smiling again after receiving treatment,” he said, adding that the foundation will continue collaborating with counties on healthcare and education initiatives.
Beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude with Sheila Jepkemboi from Trans Nzoia thanking the organisers for the free surgery.
Catherine Cheptoo from Makutano said she learned about the camp through a Safaricom text message and had previously experienced social isolation due to her condition. After receiving surgery, she said she feels proud and confident again.
Other patients, including Rebecca and Scolla Chepoisho from West Pokot, shared similar experiences of hardship due to financial constraints and stigma. They described the surgery as life-changing.
The medical camp represents a significant step towards addressing obstetric fistula in West Pokot. Leaders and partners expressed hope that sustained collaboration will reduce new cases and ensure that affected women regain their health, dignity, and place in society.
By Anthony Melly and Parklea Ivor
