Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o unveils the Kisumu County Wellness Screening Protocol/ FAITH MATETE
Ojola subcounty hospital wellness centre /FAITH MATETEKisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has
unveiled the Kisumu County Wellness
Screening Protocol, marking what he described as a “new philosophy” in
healthcare that prioritises prevention and early detection over
treatment.
Speaking during the Mental Health Dialogue and launch of the
Kisumu Wellness Programme at Ojolla subcounty hospital, Nyong’o said the
initiative represents a transformative step toward a healthier and more
resilient Kisumu.
“This is not just the launch of a
document; it is the beginning of a new way of thinking,” he said.
The governor noted that for too
long, healthcare systems have been reactive — waiting for illness before taking
action. The new protocol shifts focus to prevention and early
intervention.
Nyong’o hailed the partnership
between the county’s Department of Health and development partners that made
the protocol possible, calling their contribution “the bedrock of success.”
Under the new programme, wellness screening will become a standard
part of Kisumu’s health management system, integrating routine checks
for hypertension, diabetes, and cancer at all levels — from community units to
referral hospitals.
“Early detection of chronic
conditions is not just a medical issue but a social and economic imperative. It
saves lives, prevents suffering, and shields families from catastrophic
financial burdens,” he said.
The governor emphasised that the
initiative aligns with the county’s broader vision of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) — not
just treating illness but promoting health through strong primary care.
“My government is responsible for
creating the policy, investing in facilities and human resources, and building
an enabling environment for powerful partnerships,” he said, adding that the
county is backing the protocol with the necessary tools, training, and
political will.
Nyong’o also underscored the
importance of collaboration between public and private sectors and development
partners in advancing Kisumu’s health agenda.
“A healthy person can work, a
healthy child can learn, and a healthy mind can innovate,” he said, urging more
partners to invest in county health programmes.
Addressing mental health, the
governor called for an end to stigma, stressing that “there is no health
without mental health.”
He urged delegates at the dialogue to engage deeply, challenge existing frameworks, and propose practical solutions, assuring them that their recommendations will be reviewed for “timely and practical implementation.”
INSTANT ANALYSIS
Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o’s launch of the Kisumu County Wellness Screening
Protocol signals a crucial policy shift from curative to preventive healthcare.
By institutionalising routine screening for chronic diseases, Kisumu aims to
strengthen early detection and reduce the long-term economic burden of illness.
The initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader Universal Health Coverage goals and
demonstrates strong local leadership in health system reform. Its emphasis on
mental health inclusion also reflects a growing awareness of holistic
well-being. Sustained political will, adequate funding, and coordination with
partners will determine whether this progressive blueprint translates into
real, lasting health gains for Kisumu residents.
