Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Health’s State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Dr Josephine Mburu, visited Uasin Gishu County on March 9, 2023, to assess the progress of preparations for World Tuberculosis Day, which will take place on March 24th, 2023.
During the visit, the PS commended the County Government, AMPATH, Centre of Health Solutions (CHS), and other stakeholders for their involvement in the preparations and their commitment to sustaining TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment beyond World TB Day.
The PS also reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening primary-level health facilities with adequate test kits and equipment to facilitate the diagnosis of TB and other ailments at the community level.
This is in line with the government’s efforts to bring health services closer to the people and achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The commemorations will be held at Huruma grounds to raise awareness in the community about TB and its prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Free TB screening
Meanwhile, the County Government of Uasin Gishu says it is keen on enhancing the promotive and preventive measures geared towards curbing the spread of infectious diseases.
Governor Jonathan Bii, who spoke when he hosted the PS affirmed the county’s preparedness noting that they will conduct a one-week free screening exercise at the Huruma grounds.
“We have mobilized stakeholders to join us in sensitization of residents to take advantage of free screening even from the rural areas because we aim to improve the health care of our people,” said the Governor.
On her part, Dr Mburu said that World Tuberculosis Day will be graced by President Dr William Samoei Ruto.
“The national and county government are working in consultation to ensure that the event runs smoothly and achieves its objectives. We also call on everyone to come to get tested for free,” said Dr Mburu.
“…Huruma is among the highly populated areas, and therefore the high risk of TB infections prompted us to host the event there,” she added.
Governor Bii said there are enough screening equipment and health personnel to cater for the big numbers expected to take advantage of the free scrutiny.
The screening will go on for a week after the event.
On his part, Deputy Governor Eng. John Barorot noted that the county is working towards making Huruma Sub County Hospital a centre of excellence through partnerships to improve diagnostics. This is through ElsMed health care solutions who will use drones and technology for laboratory services.
Further, County Executive for Health Services, Dr Sam Kotut, said the department has set up the sensitization exercise across all wards on the pre-day activities including the learning institution’s participation.
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