Tinderet Sub-County - Hospitals in the region have received a donation of pharmaceutical products and drugs worth Sh. 150,000 from Karebe Gold Mining Company. The contribution is aimed at bolstering healthcare services in the area's medical facilities.
According to a new release by Kenya News Agency, Chief Health Officer in Charge of Chemase Hospital, the donation will be distributed among five hospitals: Chemase, Chepswerita, Kibongwa, Kibisen, and Chemursoi. Each hospital will receive drugs worth Sh30,000, enhancing the quality of care for patients visiting these health facilities. "We applaud Karebe for this timely gesture and their continued close working relationship with the Nandi County government to help in providing easily accessible drugs to the local residents," noted Barno.
Gilbert Terer, Karebe Gold Officer in Charge of Health Care Services, revealed that the company has been making regular monthly donations of Sh30,000 worth of drugs. The donations respond to urgent needs expressed by local residents living near the company. "We are partnering with the county government to supply the drugs based on the health facilities' needs. We have received positive feedback from the community, and we will continue to offer the necessary support," Terer said.
Terer also disclosed that Karebe Gold Mining Company is considering the possibility of supplying anti-venom to the hospitals to aid in the treatment of snakebite patients. This consideration comes in light of the fact that the area has been experiencing frequent cases of snakebites.
Henry Muge, the Chairman of Chemase residents, praised Karebe Gold Mining for its good relations with the community. He appealed to the Nandi County government to enhance healthcare infrastructure and staffing levels. "Chemase Hospital was opened in 1969 and currently serves over 10,000 patients. We urge the county government to upgrade its infrastructure and increase the number of health personnel for better services," Muge stated.
Meanwhile, residents and local stakeholders are urging the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) to establish a research center focused on identifying the types of snakes responsible for bites in the area. "We usually get 10 or more cases of snakebites in a month. It's always difficult because we refer the patients to Nandi County Hospital for further treatment," confirmed Dr. Barno. A research center could potentially help identify the specific venoms involved, thereby improving treatment outcomes and reducing fatalities.