Over 2,000 residents of Kajiado County received free medical services during a three-day medical camp held from 12th to 14th February 2025 at Olosaruni Baptist Church-Eiti. This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Spread Truth Africa, the National Youth Council, the Hope Citadel Foundation, and other development partners. The medical camp was strategically organized to address the rising cases of illnesses linked to water shortages, necessitating urgent medical intervention and food assistance.
• 2000 + KAJIADO BENEFIT FROM A 3-DAY FREE MEDICAL CAMP
• 15+ TONNES OF FOOD DISTRIBUTED
• 3000 SAWAZISHA GUMZO REACH
The event witnessed a significant turnout of patients who have historically faced challenges in accessing basic healthcare services. They received treatment for a wide range of medical conditions, including dental and optical issues, general consultations, cervical and breast cancer screenings, minor surgical procedures, and psychological counseling, among other services.
Speaking at the event, Spread Truth Africa’s Executive Director, Rev. Hamisi Kirenga expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Kajiado County for their continued support and for providing an enabling environment to host the medical camp. He further noted that since the commencement of the exercise, medical practitioners have managed to treat a variety of common ailments, including urinary tract infections, acute malnutrition, cancer, flu, tooth decay, and chest infections. Present at the event was Spread Truth – USA team, President Jeremy McCorkle.
National Youth Council’s Acting CEO, Ms. Gloria Wawira, acknowledged the dedicated efforts of doctors from the Hope Citadel Foundation, comprising a team of young volunteers who selflessly provided free medical services to the community. She also reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting the health and well-being of the youth.
“The Government remains steadfast in ensuring the health and well-being of our youth. Through strategic partnerships with Spread Truth Africa and other stakeholders, we have successfully provided highly specialized medical care, free of charge, to the youth and the general public in Kajiado County,” Ms.Gloria Wawira stated.
She further commended the remarkable spirit of volunteerism displayed by the medical practitioners, stating, “It is encouraging to witness young people voluntarily dedicating their time, expertise, and knowledge towards serving their community.”
The medical camp revealed a high prevalence of dental issues and trachoma, primarily attributed to poor sanitation exacerbated by water shortages. Additionally, the ongoing drought has exposed residents to heightened health risks, including hunger and severe water scarcity. In response, the patients were provided with highly nutritious food items as part of a holistic approach to healthcare delivery.
The food distribution initiative was a collaborative effort between the Government, development partners, and the private sector aimed at alleviating the adverse effects of the ongoing drought. This intervention also seeks to address malnutrition-related ailments and enhance the overall health and well-being of the affected communities.
Sawazisha Gumzo
Kajiado County has one of the highest Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) prevalence rates in Kenya. In response, the County Government has established a comprehensive policy framework to address this harmful practice. However, more concerted efforts are required to accelerate the reduction of FGM cases.
To support this agenda, the National Youth Council (NYC), through its Sawazisha Gumzo program which was led by Head of Advocacy and Communications, Ms. Wairimu Waweru, partnered with Spread Truth Africa’s Kikao program to conduct community sensitization at the Illaramatak Community Center in Nkinye. Hundreds of residents participated in the engagement, reinforcing the importance of continuous community dialogue in sustaining the fight against FGM.
Recognizing that the future of our nation lies in empowering young minds, NYC held a mentorship sessions at Sajiloni Girls and AIC Girls in Kajiado County. These sessions reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders and promoting holistic youth development.
Furthermore, economic empowerment remains a critical pillar in eradicating FGM. The transition of former circumcisers into alternative livelihoods has played a significant role in reducing cases of FGM in the region. At the Illaramatak Community Center, reformed circumcisers have embraced new economic opportunities, including commercial beadwork, which has provided them with sustainable income. According to the Director of the Illaramatak Community Center, Ms. Agnes Leina, the reform and reintegration of ex-cutters into alternative economic activities have contributed to a decline in FGM cases. The community has collectively adopted the principle of “cutting the garment, not the girls,” demonstrating a unified commitment to ending this harmful practice.
The government remains steadfast in working with stakeholders to eliminate FGM through policy interventions, community engagement, and economic empowerment, ensuring the protection and well-being of all girls and young women.
