Meru Marks World Clubfoot Day With Calls to End Stigma, Create Awareness
- Editorial
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
By Harun Mugambi
Meru County joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Clubfoot Day with a walk procession that began in Makutano and culminated at the Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital (MeTRH), where the main event was held. The celebration brought together healthcare professionals, parents, community leaders, faith-based organizations, and partner agencies under the theme “Walking Free from Clubfoot Disability.”
Clubfoot is a condition present at birth where a baby’s foot is turned inward and downward, making it difficult to walk if left untreated. It happens because the tendons and muscles in the foot are too tight, pulling it into an incorrect position. Though the exact cause isn't always clear, it can be linked to genetic or environmental factors. Fortunately, with early medical intervention,usually through casting, minor surgery, and braces, clubfoot can be corrected, allowing children to walk normally and live without long-term disability.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Koome Muthuri, Director of Health for Meru County, emphasized the need for early diagnosis and timely intervention.
“Clubfoot is fully treatable, and no child should be left behind,” said Dr. Muthuri. “We receive about 1,653 newborn cases every year, with 553 from Imenti Sub-county alone. Our message is simple — any suspicion should be taken seriously and acted upon. The treatment is free of charge, and our health facilities are open to all.”
Dr. Muthuri also praised the collaboration between government and partners, noting that Nyambene Sub-county has reported a significant number of cases.
“We call on all stakeholders to come together to build a future where no child is held back by clubfoot,” he added.
Dr. Bernard Murithi, CEO of Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital, dismissed harmful cultural beliefs surrounding clubfoot.
“The child is not cursed or bewitched,” said Dr. Murithi. “Pregnant mothers should attend clinics early, so any deformity can be detected and corrected immediately after birth. We are increasing our hospital budget to support the creation of more orthopedic shoes and provide other essential materials.”
Dr. Charles Kariuki, a senior pediatric orthopedic specialist, has served children with clubfoot for over 15 years. He called for an end to stigma and urged parents to seek proper medical care.
“Clubfoot doesn’t discriminate. It is a congenital condition — not a curse or witchcraft. If untreated, it leads to permanent disability,” Dr. Kariuki stated.
“Mothers experience immense stress at first, but they find joy when their child is healed. Treatment at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital is free. Let us work together to reduce the disability burden in Meru. " He said.
Dr. Kinyua Ndegwa, Head of the Surgical Division at MeTRH, warned against using unqualified practitioners.
“Don’t take your children to unregulated clinics. Some only distort the condition instead of healing it. By the time they come to us, the situation is critical. Let professionals handle it,” he said.
Victoria Kimathi, Clinical Programme Coordinator at Clubfoot Care Kenya (CCK), highlighted the national campaign to eliminate clubfoot-related disability.
“We have 29 partner hospitals across the country — from Meru to Embu, Siaya, and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Hospital. Our goal is to raise awareness so that no child is left behind.” Victoria emphasized.
Representing SPARK/Caritas – Diocese of Meru, Mr. Morris Kirimi Ndung’u, the program director, spoke about the Church’s contribution to clubfoot treatment and advocacy.
“We do rehabilitation and community empowerment. We’ve helped many beneficiaries, especially in remote areas. In Kiswahili, clubfoot is known as mguu kifundo, mguu kilazo, or mguu upinde,” said Mr. Kirimi.
“We thank the Meru County Government and Bishop Salesius Mugambi for their support. We should be ambassadors for hidden children and avoid stigmatization. We serve everyone, regardless of religion, because we’re all created in the image of God.”
Pastor Njagi, a parent advisor and spiritual counselor, highlighted the challenges parents face.
“Our goal is to give every child born with clubfoot a reason to smile again. Some parents, especially fathers, hide their children. Others drop out of treatment due to transportation costs or lack of understanding,” said Pastor Njagi.
“I teach children and parents about the process. We must expand our outreach programs to reach more families.” He added.
Parents gave heartfelt testimonies. Mama Wachira, whose two-year-old son Raymond Wachira was born with clubfoot, shared her journey:
“When I was told my child had a problem, I was reassured that it was treatable. Dr. Kariuki began casting, Dr. Kinyua performed the tenotomy, and after three months, we were given orthopedic shoes. Today, my son walks normally.” She Said
Dorren Wangui, a mother to a three year-old girl, spoke of her faith and the community support she received.
“I gave birth at General Hospital. I was guided by the doctors and the parent advisor. At first, my daughter was reluctant to wear the orthopedic shoes, but now she has accepted them. Our bishop and church prayed with us during the entire process. I encourage other parents not to hide their children,” She Said with enthusiasm.
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