By Yoga David.
The County Government of Kisumu is set to enhance the region’s healthcare and medical research through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Pittsburgh, Maseno University, the County Department of Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation, and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).
The MoU, which aims to establish a consortium for collaboration in academic research and strategic medical initiatives, was signed on behalf of Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o by Deputy Governor Dr. Matthew Owili, who also delivered the Governor’s speech during the event.
Dr. Owili emphasized the importance of global partnerships in advancing healthcare. He highlighted Kisumu’s commitment to fostering medical innovation, strengthening training programs, and improving service delivery at JOOTRH and other county health facilities.
“The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizes a partnership that will significantly strengthen our healthcare system, particularly in maternal health, specialist training, and research.” Dr. Owili stated.
The agreement will provide a framework for joint research, student and faculty exchanges, and sharing of medical resources. It will also facilitate knowledge transfer and innovative solutions to address health challenges within the region.
“This partnership, which brings together the University of Pittsburgh, UPMC, JOOTRH, Maseno University, and the Kisumu County Department of Health,will facilitate knowledge exchange, advanced specialist training, and groundbreaking research in priority health areas,” Dr. Owili said.
Dr. Owili expressed optimism that the collaboration will yield long term benefits for the people of Kisumu, particularly in specialized healthcare and medical training.
“The significance of this partnership cannot be overstated. By investing in specialist training, cutting-edge research, and infrastructure development, we are ensuring that the people of Kisumu and beyond receive the highest quality of care.” Dr. Owili stated.
Present during the signing were CECM Public Health, Dr. Greg Ganda, the Vice Chancellor of Maseno University, Professor Julius Omondi Nyabundi, Dr. Jennifer Makin, Director of the Global Health Program, University of Pittsburgh, County Attorney Otieno Aluoka, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, CEO of JOOTRH, Dr. Michelle Batin from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre (UPMC), and other representatives from the University of Pittsburgh, Maseno University, and the County Government of Kisumu.