The Ministry of Health has commended the Kenya Nephrology Nurses Association (KNNA) for its outstanding contribution to expanding kidney care services across the country.
Speaking during the official closing of the 11th Annual Scientific Conference of KNNA in Kisumu, Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, lauded KNNA’s achievements over the past decade, including the establishment of county hemodialysis units and life-saving Arterial Venous Fistula (AVF) surgical camps.
“Since its inception, KNNA has maintained a strong collaborative relationship with the Kenya Renal Association (KRA) on matters pertaining to nephrology practice in Kenya. This partnership has yielded significant benefits. Notably, prior to this conference, KNNA, in conjunction with JOOTRH, successfully concluded a 3-day Arterial Venous Fistula (AVF) camp at JOOTRH.” He noted.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Health, representatives from JOOTRH, the Kenya Renal Association (KRA), county governments, the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta National Hospital, and partners from the pharmaceutical sector.
Dr. Oluga highlighted the recent AVF surgical camp at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, where 54 patients were screened and 15 underwent successful surgeries.
“During this camp, 54 patients underwent screening. On the first day of surgery, ten patients benefited from successful procedures, with an additional 20 scheduled for surgery. While some patients were unsuitable due to medical reasons or required more complex procedures such as arteriovenous grafts, I am pleased to report that 15 patients received this crucial and affordable surgery.” The PS remarked.
He noted that since 2016, over 400 patients have benefited nationally from the AVF initiative, made possible through collaborations with local and international partners, including National Cheng Kung University Hospital in Taiwan.
“This AVF initiative, launched in 2016 through a partnership between KNNA, Kenyatta National Hospital, the University of Nairobi, and National Cheng Kung University in Tainan, Taiwan, has had a profound impact. To date, over 400 patients have benefited from surgery at Kenyatta National Hospital and various county hospitals in Nyeri, Meru, Isiolo, Narok, Nakuru, Bomet, and Laikipia Counties.” Dr. Oluga added.
He also congratulated KNNA on its crystal jubilee and commended the organization’s sustained partnership with the Kenya Renal Association in advancing nephrology practice.
Further, Dr. Oluga celebrated the recent elevation of JOOTRH to National parastatal status, promising that the Ministry of Health would work closely with national and county governments to ensure a smooth transition and continued improvement in healthcare services for the region.
“I also note with satisfaction the elevation of JOOTRH to a National parastatal. The Ministry of Health is committed to ensuring a smooth transition to this new status.” He added.
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/government-backs-fast-tracking-of-cancer-centre-completion-at-jootrh/
