Nairobi: Vihiga county has joined the list of beneficiaries of the Daktari Smart, a Telemedicine initiative by M-Pesa Foundation and Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation, aimed at improving access to quality paediatric healthcare services.

According to Kenya News Agency, the program plans to establish a Telemedicine Center at Vihiga County Referral Hospital, enabling local patients to receive consultations and specialized care from paediatric experts remotely.

Speaking during the official onboarding of the program, Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo commended the initiative, saying it will revolutionize healthcare delivery in the county. ‘This is a new beginning in the healthcare system, as we move into Universal Health Coverage (UHC), I see Telemedicine playing a critical role in addressing challenges such as the shortage of specialists, especially in rural areas,’ said Dr. Ottichilo.

The Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation delegation, led by Dr. Carol Waweru, expressed their enthusiasm in partnering with Vihiga county to expand access to specialized medical services for children. ‘We are excited to work with you in improving the delivery of paediatric services and ensuring that children, regardless of location, receive timely and expert medical attention,’ noted Dr. Waweru.

The county becomes part of the second phase of the Daktari Smart program, which has already been successfully rolled out in Samburu, Homa Bay, Baringo, and Lamu counties, reaching over 23,000 children in its first phase. The initiative aligns with national efforts to strengthen healthcare systems through innovation and technology, even as Kenya moves toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).