By Monica Nashon
Nearly 1,000 residents from Kisumu and neighbouring counties received free medical treatment during a medical camp organised by Jofuambo Welfare Group, a welfare association of journalists from the Lake Basin region.
The event attracted a turnout of patients seeking medical consultations, treatment and medication, underscoring the growing challenge of accessing affordable healthcare.
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Speaking during the event, Jofuambo Welfare Group Treasurer Winnie Miseda said the organisation was formed in 2021 to improve the welfare of journalists while also finding ways to support the wider community.
She said the free medical camp was the group’s first major community outreach initiative and was inspired by the healthcare challenges journalists encounter while covering stories in different parts of the country.
“Many people cannot afford healthcare services. We felt that if we could bring together our partners and contribute something as journalists, we could make a difference in the lives of vulnerable members of society,” said Miseda.
She thanked the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), the Kisumu County Government and other partners for supporting the initiative, noting that the turnout had exceeded expectations.
Jofuambo Welfare Group Organising Secretary Victor Otieno Juma said the journalists wanted to go beyond reporting on health issues and become part of the solution.
“We tell stories about health challenges every day. We thought it was important to take action and bring services directly to the people. This is only the beginning, and we have learned lessons that will help us improve future programmes,” he said.
Kisumu County Director of Public Health and Sanitation Fredrick Oluoch praised the initiative, saying it had complemented government efforts to improve access to healthcare.
“We are happy to partner with Jofuambo Welfare Group in serving our community. Nearly 1,000 people have turned up for the free medical camp, which demonstrates the need for such services. We look forward to more partnerships in the future,” said Oluoch.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support, saying the free services had eased the burden of medical expenses.
Lucas Omondi Owuor from Siaya County said the camp enabled him to receive treatment that he could not otherwise afford.
“My income is very low, and buying medicine has been difficult. Today, I received treatment free of charge, and I am grateful to Jofuambo for helping people like me,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Mama Teresa, said she was treated and given medication during the camp, while additional drugs were prescribed for her to purchase later.
She urged more organisations to support community health programmes, saying many families struggle to access treatment because of financial constraints.
