Chuka County Referral Hospital is hosting a week-long free Fistula Camp, offering free surgeries and medical advice to 50 women living with fistula-related complications in Tharaka Nithi County. The camp is in celebration of International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF), with this year's theme being 'End Fistula Now: Invest in Quality Healthcare, Empower Communities!'
The exercise is being carried out in partnership with The Ministry of Health, Tharaka Nithi County, Beyond Zero, M-PESA Foundation, UNFPA, AMREF, and Flying Doctors Society of Africa. The aim is to create awareness about fistula and the importance of investing in quality maternal health services.
Extensive screening of patients began on 16th May and is ongoing at Chuka county Referral Hospital to identify women who need the surgery. Comprehensive medical Check-ups and treatment will also be available through Beyond Zero medical safari on the 25th and 26th of May.
According to the World Health Organisation, fistula is the single most dramatic aftermath of neglected childbirth, with more than 2 million women living with fistula worldwide. In Kenya, it is estimated that 3,000 new fistula cases are recorded each year, with only 7.5 percent of the women able to access medical care.
M-PESA Foundation has invested over KES 15 million to support 5 Fistula camps in Bungoma, Nyeri, Kilifi, Kajiado, and Tharaka Nithi counties. The partnership aims to sensitize the public through education, information, and advocacy, with the goal of achieving a fistula-free Kenya by 2030.
