Makima Ward residents in Mbeere South Constituency, Embu, have petitioned the county government to move with speed and address the health crisis in the area.
They said the area has only two health centers against a population of over 30, 000 people.
They said the two facilities, Makima and Mbondoni, dispensaries were in wanting state with regard drugs, equipment and staffing thus posing a challenge to locals seeking health services.
Speaking during the release of the social audit report of status of health facilities in the area by Human Life Defenders’ Organizations, the locals noted that they have been forced to travel far and wide in search of medical care and at times to the neighboring counties of Machakos and Kirinyaga.
Triza Musyoka who is the Chairperson of Makima Youth Beginning stated that it was disheartening to see many people trek long distances to seek health services that was a right enshrined in the constitution.
Her sentiments were echoed by Mary Makau from Makima Women Right Organization who said that women in the area were suffering especially expectant mothers.
She said there was no maternity in the area and thus many were giving birth at home as a result of lack of the survives near them.
Makau noted that even the area has no ambulance and they have to incure an extra cost to secure one that is domiciled at the Sub-county headquarters in Kiritiri fuel it in case of an emergency.
She urged the county government to take up health services in the area seriously so that locals can get better health.
James Njiru who led the team that did the social audit said the population of Makima ward was big to be served by two the dispensaries that were mile apart and also ill-eqipped.
He as well urged the county government to upgrade the two dispensaries so that locals can get some services which lack in the facilities.
The locals said they will not relent until health services are improved.
Reporting by Kenya News Agency (KNA)
