The Ministry of Health has initiated a nationwide deworming programme targeting over six million pupils across Kenya. The launch event, held at Kanjuu Primary School in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, was presided over by Director of Medical Services Stephen Katii on behalf of the Principal Secretary.
Katii emphasized the critical need for this initiative, highlighting that worms negatively impact children’s nutritional status, concentration, and cognitive performance. “Worms impair the concentration and cognitive performance of pupils, affecting their overall nutrition status. As a nation, we must initiate good hygiene practices, improve sanitation, and provide safe, locally-produced medication to support local manufacturing. Eliminating worms is part of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, and when you eliminate worms in a population, it becomes much easier to prevent other diseases,” Katii stated.
The programme specifically targets children aged 2 to 14 years, with a goal of reaching six million pupils. Katii expressed confidence that this project would significantly benefit the health and academic performance of the children.
Stephen Baroko, Director of Primary Education, revealed that 28,000 teachers have been thoroughly trained by the Ministry of Health to facilitate the deworming process. “By training the teachers, it’s easier to help the children because they trust their teachers more. We thank the ministry officials for their support and hope that the targeted children will be effectively treated,” Baroko said.
George Karoki, Kirinyaga County Executive Member for Health, pointed out local challenges posed by bilharzia due to plantations in the Mwea irrigation scheme and issues with water and sanitation. He reported that 680 teachers and 84 health workers have been trained and are actively supervising the primary schools where the deworming exercises are taking place. “We are determined to reach our target. With this project, students will be able to concentrate and improve their education,” Karoki stated.
Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health Mawila Mungania, who attended the launch, mentioned that the programme covers sixteen counties with a high burden of worms under the slogan “Kwa Afya na Elimu Bora Tuangamize Minyoo.” Mungania praised the Ministry of Health for its support in the treatment efforts.
This extensive deworming initiative represents a significant step towards improving the health and educational outcomes for millions of children across the country.
