The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has donated four ambulances to enhance primary healthcare in Kajiado County’s most remote areas.
Alex Kilowua, Kajiado County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, stated that the ambulances will play a crucial role in reducing maternal deaths in the county’s far-flung regions, where access to healthcare facilities is limited.
“One of the main contributors to maternal deaths is delayed referrals, and I am confident that with the ambulances and the toll-free number, we can assist every mother who requires transportation for medical services,” Kilowua said.
He emphasized the county’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare by establishing primary care networks, which will improve health outcomes and reduce maternal mortality.
Kilowua also highlighted that the focus is on rural hospitals, as there is a significant gap in health indicators between urban and rural Kajiado.
Efforts are underway to equalize healthcare access across the county.
The four ambulances will serve rural Level 4 hospitals in Namelok, Ewuaso Oo Nkidong’i, Mashuuru, Ngatataek, and Elang’ata Enkima. Kilowua also revealed that KOICA has pledged an additional two ambulances, which will be delivered soon.
KOICA’s acting country coordinator, Ms. Songi Han, expressed hope that the ambulances would save the lives of expectant mothers and their unborn children, further supporting the county’s healthcare initiatives.
In addition to the ambulances, KOICA is also collaborating with the Kajiado County Health Department to build the capacity of healthcare workers and provide medical equipment.