Kisumu county is set for a major boost in the health sector through the 4th neuroscience medical camp scheduled to run from 17th – 27th June at the Jaramogi Oginga odinga Teaching & Referral hospital (JOOTRH).
The Kisumu neuroscience initiative founded by Governor Nyong’o and Dr. Victor Awuondo, a neurosurgeon based in central Ohio and who is also of local descent is aimed at making JOOTRH a centre of Medical excellence.
The Kisumu neuroscience medical camp will cost over 15 Million Kenya shillings with the County government of Kisumu having channelled over 5 Million shillings in pharmaceuticals and non-pharmaceuticals towards the project.
According to the hospital management statistics, 33% of the total surgeries done at the facility are neurosurgical in nature with 402 cases done in 2019.
Speaking during the opening of the ten-day medical camp, the hospital CEO Dr. Peter Okoth said that the camp was focused on neurosurgery, training, research and human resources development, adding that the exercise is intended to benefit over 85 patients drawn across the region with some coming from as far as Eritrea.
Dr. Okoth also acknowledged Governor Nyong’o led administration for giving health a priority and for mobilizing local and international partners who give services towards the course.
In their remarks, the medical specialists through their representatives Dr. Victor Awuor, A Columbus based Neurosurgeon and Dr.Robert M Galler appreciated the opportunity to work with the County government of Kisumu and were looking forward to working around the clock to improve the conditions of the patients and hinted on plans to educate and start a Neurosurgery training programme in Kisumu.
The medical camp hosts a 20-member team of medical experts including Surgeons, Surgery assistants and students from USA.
On the other hand, patients hoping to be beneficiaries of the exercise were grateful to the County government, the hospital management and the medical experts for giving them a chance to undergo the process and said that they were looking forward to improved health as the procedure is costly cost. However, the patients are covered under NHIF and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) thus a reduced cost of treatment to the beneficiaries.
By Jack Rachuonyo
Edited by Matilda Atieno
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) formerly known as the ERC (Energy Regulatory Commission) held a stake holder’s workshop at the Acacia Premier Hotel, Kisumu.
The workshop brought together stakeholders from the western region sugar industries with the aim of deliberating on electricity co-generation of sugar industries in the country.
Speaking during the event, the Director General of EPRA, Mr. Pavel Omieke stated that Kenya has been ranked 7th globally in geothermal consumption, adding that Kenya approximately has 13 sugar manufacturing companies and that there is need embrace embracing innovative ideas in the sector.
The workshop gave some of the challenges faced in sugar industry and co-generation which include; reduction in sugar cane growing due to delays in farmer payment, shut down of some sugar industries and their co-generation and mismanagement.”One major challenge is the issue of raw material supply.” Said Mr. Solomon Odera, the Sugar Directorate of Agriculture and Food Authority.
An overview of the big four agenda was emphasized citing manufacturing as one of the four key pillars of the development agenda. The EPRA deputy director of energy research and policy analysis Dr. John Mutua pointed out the 2019/2020 budget which allocates 700 million shillings allocated for farmers adding that sugar industry holds the key to transforming manufacturing industry.
According to Dr. John Mutua, the co-generation potential in Kenya was estimated to be about 300MW most of which will be generated in the sugar belt areas in Western Kenya. This was aimed to increase the diversification of investment plus in job creation and economic growth.
The workshop also challenged county government’s role in supporting sugar cane farmers by linking them to the milling industries.
Expectations from the workshop was that there would be linkages between EPRA and the sugar industries in the region and a new website, erc.go.ke formed to link everyone including the millers.
By Beatrice Akinyi, Wendy Noel and Lurie Zweri
Sugar harvesting in Western Kenya region (File Photo)
It is a dream come true for Kisumu All Stars having secured their elevation to the Kenya’s Sportpesa Premier League come next season following a victorious defeat over Thika United on Sunday the 9th of June at Thika Stadium, Kiambu County.
The Blue Eagles led by Coach Frank Oduor finished second with 80 points in the National Super League table, just one point behind the leading team Wazito FC after thrashing the relegated Thika United 7: 1.
The team came close to scoring in the second minute by Erick Otieno, and Ian Motanda netting hat rick together with Moses Odhiambo and Alvin Ochieng also scoring.
The promotion represents the bigger prize, as well a worthy reward for the Blue Eagles and Kisumu County as a whole for having another second home team after the 2010 relegated original Kisumu all stars participating in the high and competitive Premier League alongside their counterparts Western Stima.
All Stars will be participants of the Sportpesa league with the likes of the top league Champions Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, Kariobangi Sharks, setting another record by putting Kisumu County in the football limelight.
Following their (Blue Eagles) glory to the top league football, County government which offers financial support to the team, and their sponsors (Royal Dental Clinic) will now focus to build up a more promising Allstars club that they believe will dominate the premier league.
By Vello Wendo
Kisumu Allstars celebrates their win against Thika United (GPU)
20 neurosurgeons and neurologists are in Kisumu for a neuroscience medical camp at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Teaching Referral Hospital.
The medical experts from Central Ohio will be performing the highly specialized procedures from 17th to 27th of June 2019 covering about 80 patients who have been screened and booked.
This is part of the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative started by Governor Nyongó and Dr. Victor Awuondo, a neurosurgeon based in Ohio but with local descent and is aimed at making JOOTRH a centre of medical excellence in the region.
The cost of the procedures expected to be in excess of Kshs. 15 million will be subsidized by the County Government that will contribute over 5 million in pharmaceuticals, non-pharmaceuticals and equipment while the specialists will offer their expertise pro bono.
Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative was conceived to fill the gap existing in this country of 50 million and with only 20 neurosurgeons and whose costs are also prohibitive to the common citizens. The Initiative plans to hold the camp four times a year. The first camp was held in March this year with 31 patients treated.
The camp focuses on managing traumatic brain injuries, tumours and other neurosurgical conditions.
As part of positioning Kisumu as a regional centre for medico-tourism and JOOTRH a centre of medical excellence, the neuroscience initiative will be holding a Neuroscience Symposium on the 21st and 22nd June.
The international event is the first of its kind in Kenya that will bring together neuroscience specialists from around the world.
GPU
A team of surgeons headed by Dr. Victor Awuor performing a neurosurgery on one of the patients with a displaced spinal disc at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital. ( Picture By Jacob Owiti)
H. E President Uhuru Kenyatta and the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga joined the people of Ratta in Seme Sub-County to celebrate the life and times of Mama Dorka Owino Nyong’o, mother to Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o.
Mama Dorka Nyong’o was celebrated as a Matriach and a great pillar to the Nyong’o family, the Christian church in Nyanza and those she touched their lives. She will be remembered for her great role in the famous Maendeleo ya Wanawake Movement where she was recognized by Unicef for her excellent acumen in financial management while serving as the Nyanza Regional Treasurer.
In his address to the mourners at the burial ceremony in Ratta, President Kenyatta called on Kenyans to shun divisive politics by embracing inclusivity. He said the handshake was meant to unite Kenyans and deliver Kenya from tribal politics as well as strengthen the war against graft. He however appealed to Kenyans to remain united and help fix Kenya first.
The Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga called on the clergy to support the war against graft by turning away those presenting money gotten through unscrupulous means to church. He said it was time to remove Kenya from the super league of corruption even as called for Kenyans to Unite and embrace nationalism.
In an emotional but captivating tribute, Governor Nyong’o eulogized her mother as a trailblazer who lived her life selflessly serving the underprivileged in society.
Mama Dorka chose a life of kindness filled with great humility. Her level of selflessness was extraordinary as she took pride in taking care of the less fortunate in society and this was well demonstrated by her noble idea of starting the Ratta Girls Hostel taking care of vulnerable girls in the village and allowing them to achieve their dream of going to school.
The ceremony was also attended by leaders from across the nation including ANC Party Leader Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries Eugene Wamalwa, Fred Matiangi, Cecily Kariuki, Raphael Tuju, George Magoha, Governors James Ongwae, John Nyangarama, Kivutha Kibwana, Charity Ngilu, Senators led by Minority leader James Orengo, MPs led by Mbadi, Deputy Governors, MPs, MCA’s and many more.
GPU
Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o and Mama Kisumu Dorothy Nyong’o flanked by The Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga (Right) and H.E Governor James Ongwae (LEFT) welcomes President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Burial of mama Dorka Owino Nyong’o in Kisumu (Picture by GPU)
The county government led by the department of water has commissioned a 15 litre water bowser procured at a cost of Kshs 9.8 Million to be used in providing
water to hospitals schools and the community across the county in the event of water shortage.
The 20-ton truck flagged off by Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o will serve as an intermediate measure to provide water to learning institutions especially
ECD centers and other institutions which are not connected to piped water or those that maybe affected by Drought.
Speaking during the commissioning of the bowser, the Governor stated that the new bowser project is a move that is aimed at enhance water supply in the County,
adding that the County government is set to renovate the Maseno-Kombewa water project that was built in the 90’s in Seme.
The project plans to use Solar Energy to pump water through the Channel, a means that is more cost effective as compared to pumping water by Use of Hydro-Electric power.
Governor Nyong’o also said that his government was focused on achieving its mandate to the People of Kisumu County and was targeting efficient water supply
to rural areas under the County development which aims at delivering quality services to the People of Kisumu.
The County Minister for Water and Irrigation Mr. Salmon Orimba said that the bowser will serve areas worst hit by drought even as they grapple with climate
change and the devastating effects of weather patterns, adding that they are prepared to deal with water disruptions within institutions of learning.
The commissioning of the water bowser comes a week after the launch of a Kshs. 112 million Riat Water Tower that is set to serve over 2500 families.
The minister also stated plans to equip each of the seven sub-counties with a water bowser by end of the year 2021,adding that the current financial year has realized
additional of 12 bore holes bringing to a total of 21 bore holes in the county.
By David Collins Otina and Jack Rachuonyo
Edited By Matilda Atieno
Kisumu Weekly newsletter7th June, 2019
Governor Prof. Peter Anyang Nyong’o flags off a Ksh 9.8 million Water Bowser with a 15,000ltrs capacity towards increasing water supply in schools and other institutions that are prone to water shortage (Photo By Jacob Owiti)
Kisumu County hosted a corporate engagement forum on domestic travel organized by the Kenya Tourism Board (magical Kenya) in conjunction with County government and the members of the Western Kenya circuit at the Jambo Impala Ecolodge.
The forum which was officially opened by the Kisumu County minister for tourism and the chair of the 47 County Ministers in charge of tourism, Achie Ojany – Alai, brought together stakeholders from the tourism industry as well as corporate officials from the non-tourism sector with the aim of sharing information and exploring tourism opportunities as a way of revitalizing domestic tourism in Kenya, under the theme Work, Travel, Save and Repeat.
In her remarks, the County Minister challenged the corporate fraternity to take time off work to engage in domestic tourism as a way to refresh revitalize and stimulate. Hon Achie urged the players to think of making a memorable experience to the tourists.
“My main plan is to market Kisumu and the Western Kenya Circuit to the tourism national grid,” said Hon. Achie.
The County minister also mentioned the upcoming Africities as an opportunity where Kisumu residents and its neighbours can explore by providing accommodation and entertainment in their homes.
Speaking on behalf of the board, the representatives emphasized on the vision and mission of the board adding that their mandate is to market Kenya’s diverse experiences.
The general concern was that there is need to connect Western Kenya to the national grid in matters tourism, a call that was echoed by every speaker at the forum.
The board also assured the forum of combing the Western Kenya circuit by exploring medical, sports as well as domestic tourism in the region.
The forum was attended by members of the Business Community, Doctors, civil servants, Tour Guide operators from the Western Kenya circuit, Kenya Wildlife Service and representatives of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers.
By Matilda Atieno
County minister for tourism and the chair of the 47 County Ministers in charge of tourism, Achie Ojany – Alai, speaking during the corporate engagement forum on domestic travels at the Jambo Impala Ecolodge ( Photo by Jacob Owiti)
The County directorate of education, distributed rice to ECDE schools in Muhoroni Sub County, in a bid to finish its 14 Million Shillings to serve 660 public preschools in the 7 sub Counties in Kisumu.
Speaking During the event, the County Minister for education, Dr. Obiero Ogone who was overseeing the distribution, emphasized on the County government’s commitment in providing free and quality education to the children. He promised the teachers of improved terms of service that will be regularized to permanent.
The County director for education, Madam Margaret Apondi who accompanied the Minister, assured the teachers of the department’s commitment on improving the welfare of both the learners and teachers.
She added that the rice being distributed has nutritional value which helps in brain development to the children and urged teachers to be efficient.
The ECD teachers through their representative, Madam Alice Atieno, thanked the County government for the efforts towards improving the sector and asked the department to organize forums where teachers can discuss their challenges. She also put request to the department to sponsor more teachers for training.
A total of 54000 pupils are expected to benefit from the program which aims to increase enrolment and improving performance.
By David Wadulo
Edited by Emily Mikwa
Kisumu Weekly newsletter 31st May, 2019 (2)
County Minister for Education, Dr. John Obiero Ogone in the distributing bags of rice to ECDE schools in Muhoroni Sub County ( Photo by David Wadulo)
The 3rd national UHC conference Kisumu aimed at reviewing and taking stock of implementation, innovation and thought of the 4 UHC Pilot and the Non pilot counties, with the ultimate goal of optimally improving the health, lives and livelihoods of people.
Participants drawn from all over the 47 counties convened to discuss the UHC status in Kisumu County in comparison to other Counties and global best practices to arrive at the idea mode of defining and implementing UHC.
Leaders present at the conference challenged the health sector of corruption which they said is a leading impediment in the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the country.
While addressing the press, Governors, Dr. Mohammed Kuti of Isiolo, Dr. Alfred Mutua of Machakos, H.E Mutahi Kahiga of Nyeri and deputy governors, Caroline Wanjiru Karugu of Nyeri County and Dr. Mathew Owili of Kisumu reiterated the need for medical equipment’s and flow funds to the counties.
In his address, Governor Dr. Kuti emphasised the need to strengthen health facilities stating that laboratories in various facilities have been neglected.
Governor Mutai Kahiga re-emphasised the need to stamp out corruption in the health sector as his counterpart Dr. Alfred Mutua stating that there is need to safeguard gains in UHC adding that the success of UHC can be achieved through a multi-sectoral approach.
The 3 days’ conference was attended by representatives of the senate and Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o who joined the participants on day three.
Governor Nyong’o called on the need for continuous education of the medical officers saying that community health workers should be given opportunity for continuous learning to improve on their skills. The governor also proposed the need to have a commission that will look into health issues in the country.
In his remarks, Senator, Mutala Kilonzo Jnr, strongly pointed out that it is important to have world where human beings become first “we don’t have to choose between food and healthcare” Said Senator Mutula.
The senators condemned the current Medical equipment’s scheme, which according to Senator Alfred Outa and his counterpart, nominated senator for Kakamega County Naomi Shiyonga said is a curse rather than a blessing to the counties.
The conference brought out lessons that will be used to design or redesign the optimal path for the delivery of UHC in Kenya.
By Matilda Atieno
Governor, Dr. Mohammed Kuti of Isiolo County and his counterparts, Prof. Paul Chekwony of Kericho County (3rd Left), H. E Mutahi Kahiga of Nyeri County (3rd Right), Dr.Rashid Aman CAS Ministry of health (Left) Kisumu County deputy governor Dr. Mathew Owili ( Second Right) and his Colleague Caroline Karugu (Extreme Right) addressing the press at the 3rd National UHC Conference Kisumu. (Photo by David Wadulo)
The County Government has announced plans to decentralize dental units in efforts to improve oral services at the sub counties.
Speaking during the first edition of the Kenya Dental Association(KDA) conference at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel, Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili lauded the role dentists played in supporting effective healthcare systems.
According to Owili provisions are currently under way to identify and train young personnel in paediatric and conservative dentistry.
In his address KDA President, Dr. Andrew Wetende lauded the county government for its boldness in prioritizing dental health.
Also present were County Health Director Dr. Dickens Onyango, Keynote Speaker Prof. Arthur Kemoli, KDA Western Chair Dr. Immaculate Opondo among other practitioners from the Association.
The three-day event comes to close on Saturday as the dentists gathered to establish new insights in Dental Management.
By Collins Owuor
The Dental and Oral equipment