NAKURU: In a significant move to enhance health care services across rural areas, Nakuru County Government has forged a partnership with the Rotary Club, focusing on the rehabilitation of health facilities. The Kikopey Dispensary, situated in the semi-arid region of the Gilgil sub-county, is among the first to benefit from this collaboration, receiving an extensive upgrade to its facilities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kikopey Dispensary attends to approximately 2000 patients monthly. The partnership has resulted in the establishment of a modern maternity wing, the construction of ablution blocks, and the provision of staff quarters. The Rotary Club of Hurlingham has played a pivotal role in this transformation, demonstrating a commitment to improving health services in Nakuru County.
The over 2000 residents of the Gilgil Sub-County have reasons for optimism as the Rotary Club has pledged to continue its collaboration with the County Government. Future plans include constructing and outfitting an ultra-modern laboratory, enhancing sanitation facilities, implementing power backup solutions, and expanding the current pharmacy at the medical facility.
Joe Nyagari, Vice Chairman of the Eastern Region Rotary Club, stated that the partnership with Governor Susan Kihika’s administration is poised to yield a state-of-the-art laboratory, adhering to international specifications and featuring the latest equipment and software. He highlighted that the county laboratory staff would undergo specialized training to ensure the facility is run both professionally and sustainably.
Nyagari, following an inspection of the Kikopey dispensary, announced further expansion plans by the Rotary Club. These plans include enlarging the maternity block, the outpatient wing, and the administration block. Such improvements aim to provide residents with essential medical services locally before potential referrals for specialized treatment. He praised the County Government’s initiative to elevate the dispensary to a Sub-County hospital, a move anticipated to increase staff availability for the Kikopey community and its surrounding areas.
The Rotary Club also plans to establish facilities offering optical services, dental care, and cancer screening at the dispensary. These services target residents from Gilgil, Maela, Mai-Mahiu, and Longonot locations, who are marginalized due to the challenging climatic conditions of the area.
Dr. Daniel Wainaina, County Health Services Director, emphasized the county government’s commitment to public-private partnerships in advancing healthcare services. He acknowledged the need for support from non-state actors in devolving quality healthcare services effectively. Dr. Wainaina outlined that the primary goal is to provide improved and quality medical services closer to the residents’ homes. The county is actively collaborating with ward representatives to operationalize dispensaries.
Following the upgrade, the Kikopey Dispensary is set to offer a wider array of services, including family planning, immunization, and various outpatient services. The enhancements to the maternity wing are expected to contribute significantly to safe delivery at the hospital, creating a more comfortable environment for expectant mothers.