KENYA: Access to health care for rural and marginalized communities
Like much of sub-Saharan Africa, Kenya faces enormous health challenges, including a devastating HIV/AIDS epidemic. The HIV prevalence rate in Kenya is estimated to approximately 5%, with the highest infection rates among young women. An estimated 233 people die of AIDS-related causes daily, and providing comprehensive treatment remains a challenge to an over-burdened health system.
Health obstacles for a marginalized population
Since 2004, Doctors of the World-USA (DOW) has focused efforts on rural communities, such as those in the West Pokot district, where health problems are particularly acute due to poor infrastructure, food insecurity, and limited access to health services. Most of the population belongs to the Pokot tribe, an ethnic minority in Kenya that has been historically marginalized. Increasing the availability of and utilization of health services is a challenge due to the poor roads, understaffed health facilities, and the semi-nomadic lifestyle of many in the region. Women and newborns face a high rate of mortality and morbidity, made worse by the high rates of the most extreme form of female genital mutilation.
Breaking barriers and building capacity
DOW is working to reach the socially, economically, and geographically isolated communities of West Pokot and other rural communities in Kenya, responding to three areas of critical need: HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and maternal and neonatal health. In each of these areas, DOW has sought to build local infrastructure, and strengthen the capacity of local health workers to provide comprehensive care. Activities such as the construction of an HIV clinic at the Kapenguria District Hospital have been instrumental in supporting Kenyan efforts to prevent and provide treatment for HIV. Trainings for health workers and community members have built local capacity to prevent and treat TB and HIV/AIDS, and to ensure that women and children have access to lifesaving medical and social services.
Comprehensive and long-term solutions
In addition to direct provision of medical supplies and services, DOW’s long-term strategies include extensive training for health workers and collaboration with community leaders to expand outreach efforts. The development of systems, tools and protocol for comprehensive and sustainable care is a critical component of DOW’s programs. Working with regional partners, including government health authorities, DOW is building local capacity to forge lasting solutions for the urgent health needs of the district.
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CURRENT PROJECTS IN KENYA:
HIV/AIDS Prevention, Treatment and Care
Maternal and Neonatal Health
Tuberculosis Control
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CURRENT PROJECTS IN KENYA:
HIV/AIDS Prevention, Treatment and Care
Maternal and Neonatal Health
Tuberculosis Control