More than 5,000 residents of Elgeyo Marakwet County have so far benefited from the ongoing month-long free medical camp organised by the Kagoech Foundation in partnership with Lifecare Hospital and the county government.
The second phase of the camp is set to take place on Wednesday at Muskut Dispensary in Keiyo South, where hundreds of residents are expected to turn up for check-ups and specialised care.
Patron of the Kagoech Foundation, Dr Micah Kigen, described the initiative as a vital lifeline for the community.
“My plea is for residents to turn up in large numbers so that those with medical challenges can be assisted, while others benefit from general check-ups,” said Dr Kigen.
He added that preparations for the Muskut camp were complete, with full support from Lifecare Hospital and the county government.
During the first phase held at Kamwosor, more than 5,000 people accessed a wide range of medical services, including referrals to Lifecare Hospital for patients requiring specialised treatment.
Dr Benjamin Kinaile, who led the medical team at Kamwosor, hailed the camp’s success, noting that many residents with long-standing health challenges finally received care.
“It was well organised and very useful to the community. Many rural residents have underlying health issues that can only be detected through such initiatives,” he said.
Dr Kinaile further noted that the camps had sufficient drugs, medical supplies, and strong logistical support, ensuring that medics were able to deliver quality services.
At Muskut, the team will again provide free consultations and treatment in orthopaedics, ophthalmology, gynaecology, internal medicine, nutrition, and general surgery. Ambulances will also be on standby to handle referral cases.
Dr Ken Koech, Medical Superintendent at Muskut Hospital, confirmed that clinical officers, nurses, and other health personnel were ready for the camp.
“We have everything in place and expect a high turnout. Arrangements, including referral mechanisms, are already set,” he said.
Dr Amos from Lifecare Hospital praised the foundation’s commitment to uplifting community healthcare.
“This is a noble initiative, and we are ready to provide care and follow-up support for any referral cases,” he said.
Dr Kigen emphasised that the camps are also being used to raise awareness and mobilise residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) under President William Ruto’s healthcare reforms.
“We fully support the President’s healthcare plan, particularly the rollout of SHA, which is already benefiting Kenyans at the bottom of the pyramid. Through these camps, we will also identify vulnerable residents who should be supported to enrol,” he noted.
Founded more than 20 years ago, the Kagoech Foundation has spearheaded programs in healthcare, environmental conservation, community livelihoods, and sports talent development.
Dr Kigen reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to expanding access to healthcare and ensuring early detection of medical conditions that often go untreated in rural areas.
BY MATHEWS NDANYI
