KMTC Hosts Global Handwashing Day 2024 Celebration, Launches “Epuka Uchafu, Afya Nyumbani” Initiative
As the world observes Global Handwashing Day on October 15, 2024, key leaders gathered at KMTC Manza Campus to commemorate the importance of hand hygiene in promoting public health. The event was led by the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, alongside Deputy Governor of Machakos County, Mr. Francis Mwangangi, and KMTC CEO, Dr. Kelly Oluoch. Together, they launched the “Epuka Uchafu, afya nyumbani” initiative, aimed at enhancing community health through better sanitation practices.
In her keynote address, PS Muthoni underscored the vital role hand hygiene plays in infection prevention, highlighting that simple practices like handwashing can significantly reduce the spread of illnesses.
“Proper handwashing with soap and running water can prevent up to 50% of infections. It is crucial for teachers, trainers, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to continually educate the public, especially children, on maintaining proper hand hygiene,” she stated.
PS Muthoni also recognized the essential role of Human Resources for Health in achieving the Ministry of Health’s strategic goals. She acknowledged KMTC as a leading institution in training healthcare professionals, whose skills are crucial to advancing health outcomes in the country and beyond. The PS commended the College for hosting the event and contributing to national health initiatives.
She further encouraged participants to support the Presidential Tree Planting Initiative, which not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to reducing airborne diseases. Additionally, she urged attendees to enroll to the Social Health Authority which has replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). She noted that this initiative will significantly advance Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals by making healthcare more affordable, accessible, and high-quality for all citizens.
KMTC has been tasked with leading SHA awareness and mobilization efforts in Kisumu and Homa Bay counties. To prepare for this transition, the College has introduced a Diploma in Health Insurance Management to equip the healthcare workforce for the new scheme.
KMTC CEO, Dr. Kelly Oluoch, reflected on the significance of the Global Handwashing Day being hosted at the campus where his own medical career began. He emphasized the importance of hand hygiene as a preventive measure against communicable diseases, stressing that public health must remain a national priority.
“At KMTC, public health is at the core of our mission, focused on disease prevention. Our contribution to primary healthcare is exemplified through the education of future healthcare professionals who champion such preventive measures,” he remarked. Dr. Oluoch also noted that KMTC has previously donated over 100 water tanks to communities to ensure consistent access to clean water, a key resource in the fight against disease.
Notable attendees included AMREF Director, Dr. Meshack Ndirangu, Machakos Chief Officer Public Health Mr. Simon Mwaiko, and Acting County Commissioner, Mr. Rotich David, KMTC staff and students.
During the event, Dr. Oluoch encouraged student leaders to cultivate a supportive environment by being mindful of their peers’ well-being and addressing signs of mental distress. He inspired the students to recognize their potential as leaders, reminding them that their commitment to supporting each other can foster a strong community and serve as a foundation for their future leadership roles.
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