Mary, a mother of one from Muhoroni town, arrived at Township Primary School carrying her seven-month-old baby.

She had come seeking family planning services but also took the opportunity to update her child’s immunizations.

“I want to space my next child properly,” Mary said. “I also wanted my baby to get the vaccines on time. It is not easy to access these services at a nearby clinic, so I am grateful this camp came to our area.” She said.

The inaugural annual free medical camp, targeting residents from all seven subcounties in Kisumu, saw over 200 women examined, more than 20 children immunized and eight mothers receive family planning services.

The initiative, led by Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili and graced by Dr Don Sunday, the County Director of Health, aims to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery.

Bringing services closer to the people

Dr Don Sunday encouraged other health facilities to adopt similar outreach programs.

“Bringing services closer to communities is key to improving Kisumu’s health indicators,” he said. “We want mothers and children to access routine care without having to travel far. I also urge residents to register for SHA, which will ensure continuity of care despite current teething problems.”

Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili added that health initiatives should not be politicized.

“Our responsibility as leaders is to serve the people who elected us,” he said. “We must leave our comfort zones and support programs that save lives. Delays in payments from SHA to health facilities could affect service delivery and we must resolve this quickly to prevent disruption of essential services.” He urged.

Voices from the camp

For many attendees, the camp was their first access to medical services in months.

“I brought my two-year-old for measles vaccination,” said Josephine, a resident of Muhoroni, Township area. “It is convenient that the camp is in our area. I did not have to walk long distances or spend money on transport,” he added.

Samuel, who came for blood pressure check-up, said, “I did not know my blood pressure was high. I have been advised on medication and lifestyle changes. The doctors explained everything clearly.”

Another mother, Achieng, who received family planning advice, said, “I was thinking about using a contraceptive method, but I had no guidance. Today I received information and chose the method that works best for me.”

Impact on county health indicators

Kisumu County’s immunization coverage for children under five is around 53.6%, while modern contraceptive use among women stands at about 57%.

Each child vaccinated and each mother accepting family planning contributes to improving these numbers.

Outreach programs also encourage preventive care, reduce barriers to access and strengthen health-seeking behavior among communities.

Dr Sunday emphasized that such initiatives complement facility-based services and are critical for maternal and child health.

“Every mother and child reached is progress toward reducing preventable deaths and improving overall health outcomes,” he said.

Deputy Governor Owili concluded that county leaders must rally behind these programs.

“We cannot allow politics to interfere with health services. Our role is to ensure every resident has access to essential care,” he said.

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