by Rosalinda Mukami
The Chuka County Referral Hospital in Tharaka Nithi County is currently hosting a free fistula medical camp, which began on October 18, 2024, and will run until October 31, 2024.
The camp, organized by the county government in collaboration with M-Pesa Foundation, aims to treat women suffering from fistula, a condition that causes prolonged physical and emotional distress. The event is part of a broader effort to achieve a fistula-free Kenya by 2030.
Fistula, a severe medical condition often caused by prolonged labor, leads to symptoms such as the leaking of urine or stool, forcing women to use diapers and face societal stigma. Mental health complications, including depression, anxiety, and loss of self-worth, frequently affect those suffering from the condition.
Speaking at the hospital, Dr. Gichuyia Nthuraku, County Health Department Executive, highlighted the county's ongoing efforts to provide free treatment and address the stigma surrounding fistula. "We are offering free fistula treatment at Chuka County Referral Hospital because we want to restore dignity to our mothers," said Dr. Nthuraku.
According to WHO Africa, approximately 30,000 new cases of fistula are recorded annually, but only 7.5 percent of affected women access medical care, leaving about 2,700 without treatment each year. This is due to the high costs of medical services.
Women and girls are being encouraged to give birth in hospitals to ensure they receive timely medical care. Additionally, there is a call for an end to early marriages and for the community to support women’s access to healthcare.
Over the past few years, the government and non-governmental organizations have launched several programs aimed at eradicating fistula in Kenya. One such initiative, spearheaded by UNFPA, saw 1,400 women receive free fistula surgeries. Another program, "Building a Country-wide Fistula Treatment Network in Kenya," has supported 6,223 surgeries over six years.
In 2022, 50 women successfully underwent fistula surgeries during a one-week medical camp at Chuka County Referral Hospital. This camp was organized by the county government in collaboration with Beyond Zero, M-Pesa Foundation, UNFPA, Amref, Flying Doctors Society of Africa, and the Ministry of Health.
The current camp hopes to continue making strides in treating and eradicating fistula, ultimately helping women regain their dignity.
Comments