Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has broken ground on the Wezesha Watoto Children’s Neurodevelopment Centre.
The centre is a pioneering facility offering comprehensive care, education, and support for children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, and learning challenges.
The one-stop centre will provide early screening and diagnosis, therapies, behavioural and educational support, as well as training for caregivers and teachers, alongside family counselling. Well-child clinics will also be included to reduce stigma.
The centre, borne from a decade-long partnership between Kenyan and U.S. pediatric specialists through AMPATH Kenya addresses the needs of Kenya’s 1 in 5 children with disabilities, overcoming barriers like stigma, limited transport, and cultural misconceptions.
“This centre ensures specialized care to help every child reach their potential,” said Professor Eren Oyungu, co-director of the centre.
Dr. Megan S. McHenry of Indiana University emphasized the compassionate, evidence-based care the centre will offer.
Building on AMPATH’s neurodevelopmental programs, the centre incorporates initiatives like Pepea Pamoja (caregiver support), Tumaini (toilet training), and Takia (digital education for reducing stigma).
It will also serve as a hub for education, training, and research, including the Wezesha Walimu teacher training project.
MTRH CEO Dr. Philip Kirwa highlighted that families will no longer struggle to find support.
The groundbreaking was attended by leaders from MTRH, Moi University, Indiana University, and local families, marking a significant step toward empowering children with developmental challenges.
