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By Omondi Rodgers
Busia County, Kenya: The Busia County Department of Health has taken a major step towards strengthening its immunization program with the acquisition of new vaccination equipment valued at Ksh 14 million. The initiative aims to bring healthcare closer to communities and improve service documentation.
The newly received supplies include 148 cold boxes, 189 vaccine carriers, 42,000 Solo Shot syringes, and 22,799 child health booklets. The equipment was officially flagged off at a ceremony held at the Busia County Referral Hospital.
County Vaccination Coordinator Juliet Kilima stated that the resources will be distributed across the county’s 123 vaccination facilities. “This is a major step towards ensuring health services reach the people,” Kilima said. She outlined specific targets for the coming period: 32,340 children under one year, 16,213 girls for HPV vaccination, and 32,210 pregnant mothers.
Kilima emphasized that the equipment will resolve long-standing logistical challenges. “Previously, shortages hindered our ability to achieve targets. With support from the national government and UNICEF, we are now assured that even those in hard-to-reach areas will be served,” she explained. The cold boxes and carriers will ensure vaccines remain effective during transport and storage.
County Director of Medical Services, Dr. Nina Rabare, acknowledged that the county’s current vaccination rate of 72% remains below the desired target. “We are aiming to reach at least 85 per cent to achieve adequate community protection. Anything lower creates gaps that can lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases,” Dr. Rabare noted. She reassured parents of the safety and benefits of vaccines and expressed confidence that the new equipment would make services more predictable and reliable.
Chief Officer for Health, Gibson Wafula, described the Ksh 14 million investment as critical for the county’s future. “This is an investment in our work, our people, and our future. It will enable us to provide better health services to our communities,” Wafula said.
He also highlighted the unique strain on Busia’s health system due to its role in serving cross-border populations. “We are grateful to our partners, including the national government, for their continued support. Investing in service provision will not only improve healthcare but also help boost county revenue,” he added.
The deployment of this equipment is expected to significantly enhance the reach, efficiency, and impact of immunization services across Busia County.
