KDF, British Army launch free medical camps in 3 counties

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the British Army medical units are holding a week long free medical camps in Samburu, Laikipia and Isiolo counties.

Hundreds of patients turned up for treatment on Wednesday at Larisera in Samburu where the exercise began.

More than 12,000 patients have been treated in the last two years in the joint medical venture.

The British Army Field Hospital has established several health clinics in remote areas in the country where local communities have limited or no access hospitals.

They also provide a series of health awareness sessions focusing on hygiene and birth control measures.

“This is a fantastic partnership experience, focusing on reaching areas of the community that are most difficult reach,” said Brig David Eastman of the British Army.

Nominated Senator Naisula Lesuuda said leaders should inform their communities to go for check-ups to detect ailments that can be treated early.

She noted that despite devolution, the health sector still faced challenges because majority of the people, especially those in far-flung areas, cannot access good medical care.

“County governments should reach such people,” She said.

Samburu Health executive, Mary Ekai hailed the partnership saying it supplements the county’s efforts in ensuring locals get good medical services.

Experts will focus on communicable diseases, reproductive health, malaria, cancer screening and Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) for HIV/Aids.