By Lorraine Anyango
Great news for families in Ahero Sub-county, Kisumu County! The Kisumu County Department of Health has partnered with Miral Welfare Foundation Kenya (MWFK) to bring much-needed occupational therapy services directly to the community. This exciting collaboration has resulted in a brand new, fully equipped therapy room at Ahero County Hospital.
Previously, children with disabilities in Ahero had to travel long distances to access occupational therapy. This not only placed a burden on families but also created a barrier to receiving crucial treatment.
The handover ceremony of the new therapy room was a joyous occasion, attended by representatives from the health department, the Ministry of Health in Nyando, community chiefs, and other partnering organizations. Parents were especially thrilled, knowing their children would now receive therapy in a comfortable and well-equipped environment, closer to home.
Miral Welfare Foundation has played a vital role in this initiative. They not only provided support for the new therapy room and equipment but also played a key role in:
- Raising awareness: Miral helped create a demand for occupational therapy services in the community through sensitization programs.
- Facilitating outreach: They organized community outreach programs to bring occupational therapy services directly to those in need.
- Supporting staffing: While there is still a need for more therapists, Miral’s support has allowed for the employment of one occupational therapist in Ahero.
- Capacity building: They’ve provided training on new guidelines for disability assessment and categorization, further enhancing the quality of care.
The need for occupational therapy in Kisumu County is vast. Therapists work with a wide range of conditions, including:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism
- Cerebral palsy
- Congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot)
- Speech and language delays
- Mental health and wellness needs
Michael Amara, a Kisumu County Occupational Therapist, highlights the challenges faced: limited staff, lack of equipment, and inadequate infrastructure. However, the new partnership with Miral offers a beacon of hope.
The positive impact is already being felt. Data from Ahero Sub County Hospital shows a significant increase in the number of occupational therapy assessments and interventions completed in 2024 compared to 2023. This includes a rise in initial assessments, inpatient care, and revisits.
Miral Committed to Making a Difference
Highlighting the importance of the project, Mrs. Bae Eunsun, a representative from Miral, emphasized their dedication to improving the lives of children with disabilities during the handover ceremony. She stated that the new therapy room was a significant step forward in achieving this goal.
This collaboration between the Kisumu County Department of Health and Miral Welfare Foundation is a significant step forward in ensuring that children with disabilities in Ahero have access to the vital therapy they need. No longer will they have to travel far or hide their conditions. Thanks to this remarkable partnership, they now have the help they deserve, right in their own community.
