Uasin Gishu adopts drone technology in new health reforms
By Lutta Njomo, June 11, 2024
Uasin Gishu County has adopted the use of drones to deliver essential medical supplies in remote areas and during emergencies.
In a statement on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, the Ministry of Health noted the drones will be contained in the inaugurated Hub and Spokes Diagnostics Drone Technology Center in Eldoret.
The Ministry of Health lauded the new reforms arguing that they are key to revolutionising the county’s health sector and align with the push for Universal Health Coverage which is among the pillars of President William Ruto’s administration.
“Uasin Gishu County has inaugurated the Hub and Spokes Diagnostics Drone Technology Center in Eldoret, marking a significant milestone in healthcare innovation. This cutting-edge centre is poised to revolutionize healthcare delivery by significantly reducing travel time for diagnosis and treatment, thereby enhancing healthcare accessibility and aligning with the goal of Universal Health Coverage,” the Ministry of Health stated.
During the inauguration ceremony, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni Muriuki highlighted that the drones will offer a cost-effective solution for transporting medical supplies to remote areas, including blood, specimens, essential drugs, and organs for transplantation.
“They will also play a crucial role in disaster management, relief operations, and pandemics by ensuring the swift and safe delivery of vital medical resources,” PS Mary Muthoni noted.
First Lady Rachel Ruto also attended the inauguration ceremony where Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital in Eldoret was inaugurated.
“This establishment will greatly enhance maternal and child health in Uasin Gishu County and the broader Rift Valley region, providing comprehensive care from family planning to postnatal services,” the Ministry emphasised.
Drone technology in Homabay, Kisumu
On April 27, 2024, the Ministry of Health commissioned the Zipline plant to distribute blood products and vaccines to hospitals in Kisumu and Homa Bay Counties using drones.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha speaking about the official launch of the service in Chemelil, Kisumu County, said the development marks a significant milestone in enhancing healthcare access and attaining Universal Health Coverage.
“The launch of drone deliveries for blood and vaccines is a transformative moment for healthcare in Kenya. This technology has the potential to revolutionize access to critical medical supplies, particularly in remote areas, and significantly reduce malaria burden,” she stated.
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