Siaya County has received a major boost in the fight against malaria and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) following a donation of equipment worth Ksh51 million.

The donation from Amref-Kenya and Centre for Health Solutions (CHS) includes 210 bicycles, essential diagnostic tools, reagents for routine diagnosis of diseases like schistosomiasis (bilharzia), soil-transmitted helminths (intestinal worms), and other NTDs.

Among the key items donated were two portable chest X-ray machines powered by artificial intelligence, donated by CHS and valued at Ksh34 million.

The equipment aims to strengthen diagnostic capacity, enhance referral systems and improve community follow-ups.

It is also designed to address critical gaps identified in a recent survey conducted in 31 health facilities across the county.

CHS chief executive Dr Paul Wekesa emphasised that the AI-powered machines had resulted in a 5 per cent increase in the detection of asymptomatic TB cases, which is critical in controlling the disease.

The donation was funded by PEPFAR.

Dr Wekesa expressed optimism that the new equipment would help reduce the TB burden.

Gilbert Wangalwa, Deputy Country Director for Amref-Kenya, highlighted the increasing prevalence of NTDs like bilharzia, intestinal worms, jiggers, and rabies in Siaya.

He stated that the laboratory equipment, worth Ksh17 million, would improve early diagnosis and management of these diseases.

“Siaya has one of the highest percentages of NTDs in the country. Our goal is to provide proper identification, management, and diagnosis of these conditions,” Wangalwa said.

“This donation is part of our broader strategy to eliminate NTDs by 2027,” he added.

Siaya County, which has one of the highest malaria prevalence rates in Kenya, got 210 bicycles for Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to facilitate their grassroots efforts in tackling malaria.