By Reporter
Over 600 residents of Amu Island in Lamu County received free medical care during a two-day medical camp organized by Tundani Medical Centre, in collaboration with an international non-governmental organization.
The event, that was held in Amu Island, attracted a diverse range of participants, including community leaders,the elderly, children, youth, and women.
The camp offered screenings and treatment for various health conditions, including diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, malaria, hypertension, eye problems, ulcers, and dental issues.
Maternal and child health services were also a primary focus, providing essential care to expectant mothers and children.
Ummi Shahasi, a mother of three, was among the women screened for cervical and breast cancer. She expressed her gratitude for the camp, noting that she could not afford the screenings at King Fahd Hospital.
“Medical care has become very expensive, even at the county level. Camps like these help alleviate the struggles of families without NHIF cover,” Shahasi said.
She added that the rising cost of living has pushed many families out of affordable healthcare and urged the government to make medication more accessible.
Another beneficiary, Awadh Shekue, who received treatment for high blood pressure, echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the urgent need for affordable healthcare services.
Chris Magan, the medical director at Tundani Prime Medical Centre, highlighted the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases in Lamu, stressing the importance of raising awareness about healthy living.
“Our main goal with this initiative is to address the community’s need for better and affordable healthcare,” Magan stated.
The camp’s sponsor, Banny Tolke, remarked on the overwhelming turnout of nearly 1,000 people, including children and the elderly, underscoring the local demand for accessible medical services.
“The rising global cost of living has made healthcare a challenge for many, and this camp is part of our broader strategy to support and uplift communities in Lamu,” Tolke added.
Mkomani Ward MCA Shekhuna Abbas praised the medical camp, describing it as a vital initiative to address the healthcare needs of Lamu’s most vulnerable populations.
He also pointed to recent budget cuts in healthcare, noting that Lamu County’s NHIF Universal Healthcare coverage had been slashed from Ksh 120 million to Ksh 36 million in the 2024/2025 financial year.
Lamu County Assembly Majority Leader Mbwana Bunu called on healthcare providers to ensure services are affordable and accessible, particularly in underserved areas like Lamu East, which he said is in dire need of specialized medical care.
