Siaya County Achieves Remarkable Boost in Immunization Rates

SIAYA, Kenya – Siaya County has marked a significant improvement in public health metrics, notably in disease burden reduction and immunization coverage.

According to Kenya News Agency, Speaking from his Masiro village home during the kit distribution to community health promoters (CHPs), Governor Orengo shared that with the support of the CHPs, the county has witnessed a decrease in disease burden from 33 percent to 19 percent. Additionally, he credited the health promoters with the increase in immunization coverage, which has impressively risen from 67 to 99 percent. These achievements underscore the vital role of CHPs in the county’s healthcare strategy.

At the same event, attended by Mama Ida Odinga, wife of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Governor Orengo further highlighted the increase in skilled birth deliveries from 56 percent to 96 percent, contributing to the reduction of maternal and child mortality rates in the county.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to health sector improvements, announcing upcoming projects including the construction of an ultra-modern medical complex in Siaya town and the enhancement of healthcare facilities across the sub-counties with equipped level four hospitals.

Mama Ida Odinga, the event’s guest of honor, praised the initiative to equip CHPs, emphasizing their crucial role in the health and survival of mothers and children in rural areas.

On behalf of the national government, Ugenya deputy county commissioner Beatrice Bikeyo expressed high expectations for the CHPs and urged them to intensify their community service efforts. Siaya County’s strategy to include CHPs in its healthcare plan, complete with monthly stipends, has set a precedent for community-based healthcare initiatives.

The ceremony was also attended by Siaya county assembly speaker George Okode, members of the County Assembly, and Betty Orengo, spouse of the Siaya governor, amongst other dignitaries.