UASIN Gishu county has partnered
with a team of Swedish health experts to strengthen cancer care and improve
access to treatment for patients in the region.
The county hosted representatives
from the International Centre for Local
Democracy, based in Sweden, for a joint monitoring exercise of
the Equity in Cancer Care Project—a
partnership between Uasin Gishu county
and Region Östergötland, Sweden.
The visiting ICLD delegation, led by
Simon Harenstam and Johanna Wyckman, met senior
county health officials, medical specialists, and community health stakeholders
to review the project’s progress and plan for its long-term sustainability.
County executive for health services Joseph Lagat said the county is committed to expanding access to
equitable cancer care for all residents.
“Cancer has become a major burden in
our communities, and we truly value this partnership, which allows us to extend
vital support to patients,” he said.
He also praised the strong political
goodwill from the county’s leadership, noting that it has been instrumental in
advancing cancer care initiatives.
As part of their monitoring visit,
the ICLD team toured Uasin Gishu County
Hospital and Moi Teaching
and Referral Hospital, where they observed ongoing efforts in
cancer screening, patient follow-up, and support services.
Wyckman noted significant progress,
saying the number of residents accessing screening services has risen
notably—an indicator of the project’s growing reach and impact.
Dr Paul
Wangwe, chief officer for promotive and preventive health, said the partnership bridges local and international
expertise to ensure all residents, regardless of background, can access
life-saving cancer services.
The delegation also visited Cheboin health centre, where they
witnessed the crucial role of Community
Health Promoters in delivering primary healthcare and supporting
early cancer detection. They observed digital health engagement and ongoing
training sessions led by CHPs.
County primary health care coordinator Collete Chirchir
said the county is enhancing community participation and tackling challenges
faced by CHPs.
“We’re making deliberate efforts to
strengthen grassroots involvement in health interventions,” she assured.
ICLD representative Simon Harenstam commended the
collaboration, calling it a model of how international cooperation can
strengthen local health systems.
“This partnership demonstrates how
informed decision-making and shared learning can build resilient health structures,”
he said.
Wyckman echoed his sentiments,
lauding the commitment of local leaders.
“The dedication shown by Uasin
Gishu’s political and health leadership is truly inspiring and reflects a
shared commitment to health equity,” she said.
Lagat said the visit marked a milestone in the project and reaffirmed the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing complex health challenges such as cancer care.
