The fight against Non-Communicable Diseases in Vihiga County has received a boost, after the unveiling of an ambitious initiative to combat a rising burden of NCDs in the county.

The initiative aims at strengthening healthcare services and forging key partnerships.

Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo revealed that the county is utilizing a cutting-edge NCD clinic at Hamisi Sub-County Hospital while working with various partners to organize screening and treatment camps aimed at early detection and management.

The governor also highlighted his administration’s commitment to tackling Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, diabetes, sickle cell disease, rheumatic heart disease, severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and mental health disorders.

According to official data, NCDs are responsible for nearly half of all hospital admissions, over half of hospital-related deaths, and 39 percent of total fatalities in the county.

He emphasized the vital role of the newly established Hamisi NCD Clinic, dedicated to diagnosing and managing chronic illnesses.

The facility, which exclusively handles NCD cases, plays a key role in reducing the financial burden on patients, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds in Vihiga and neighboring counties such as Kakamega, Kisumu, Nandi, and Siaya.

The county has also joined forces with Safaricom's M-Pesa Foundation and ZURI Healthcare to organize regular medical screening camps.

The first free medical camp took place at Gisambai Primary School in Hamisi Sub-County, providing essential healthcare services to the community.

"Through strategic partnerships, Vihiga County is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against non-communicable diseases, offering hope to thousands of residents battling chronic illnesses," Ottichilo said.

The M-Pesa Foundation has enrolled 20 vulnerable patients in the Social Health Authority (SHA) healthcare program, covering their annual medical fees in full.