University of Nairobi and Trans Nzoia County Forge Groundbreaking Health Collaboration
In a significant development aimed at revolutionizing healthcare in Trans Nzoia County, the University of Nairobi (UoN) and the County government have entered into a pioneering collaborative agreement. Signed by Prof. Kiama Gitahi, Vice Chancellor of UoN, and George Natambeya, Governor of Trans Nzoia County, this partnership is poised to bolster health service delivery and achieve transformative health outcomes for the region.
Faced with a dire shortage of skilled healthcare professionals to man its robust health infrastructure, Trans Nzoia County has sought the expertise of UoN's Faculty of Health Sciences. This collaboration is a beacon of hope for the enhancement of healthcare services in the county, promising to address critical gaps in service provision.
Central to this partnership is the strategic utilization of Kijana Wamalwa Teaching and Referral Hospital and the Kitale County Referral Hospital. These institutions will serve as key training and placement grounds for UoN's postgraduate medical students specializing in various critical care areas. Furthermore, the agreement underlines the sharing of healthcare professionals and the provision of mentorship opportunities, significantly augmenting the county's health service capacity.
Highlighting the collaboration's breadth, the University of Nairobi commits to support the county in establishing specialized units across a spectrum of healthcare services including Oncology, Intensive Care, Pathology, Cardiology, Neurology, and several others. This endeavor not only encapsulates a transfer of technological expertise but also paves the way for joint research, innovation, and consultancy efforts aimed at elevating clinical care standards.
In reciprocation, the county government underscores its commitment to acknowledging UoN specialists, providing accommodation for the visiting postgraduate doctors, and ensuring an enabling work and learning environment within its health facilities.
Expressing gratitude towards the University of Nairobi for this pivotal support, Governor George Natambeya highlighted the county's unwavering commitment to healthcare, noting the allocation of over 30 percent of its budget to health services. This partnership, according to him, marks a transformative stride in healthcare delivery, with long-term prospects including the establishment of a university within Trans Nzoia County.
Prof. Kiama Gitahi commended the collaborative effort, stressing its alignment with the University's strategic focus on community service. “This partnership not only facilitates the practical training of our postgraduate doctors in rural settings but also signifies our dedication to leveraging our expertise for community benefit. You have found a better partner in UoN".he stated.
This groundbreaking collaboration between the University of Nairobi and Trans Nzoia County Government heralds a new era in healthcare provision, promising profound health impacts and an enriched training environment for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
