With an investment of KES 200 million, the program focuses on increasing community awareness, strengthening county health systems, and improving reintegration processes for fistula survivors. It targets several counties including Bungoma, Kilifi, and Kiambu, with activities such as corrective surgeries, Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services, media campaigns, training of healthcare workers, and establishing support groups to aid reintegration. The initiative also emphasises comprehensive care from prevention to post-surgical reintegration and improves the planning, financing, and coordination of SRH services.
Despite the progress, substantial gaps remain. Leveraging technology and partnerships, we can establish databases that provide us with a clear picture of which regions in Kenya are most affected by fistula cases, allowing us to intervene sooner. These interventions can also reduce the distances women cover to access these services.
Corrective surgery is the primary treatment for fistula, yet the global shortage of fistula surgeons means only one in 50 women receives the surgery they need. This lack of trained professionals is a significant barrier to the ongoing efforts to fight fistula and restore dignity to our women.
Beyond the shortage of surgeons, we also have scarce healthcare centres for fistula cases. Emergency obstetric treatments and surgeries, essential for preventing and treating fistulas, are often out of reach.
With less than ten years remaining to achieve the United Nations' target, there is an urgent need to intensify our efforts. Reflecting on two decades of progress, we must now focus on the road ahead. All stakeholders, governments, NGOs, healthcare providers, and private sector partners must reinforce their commitments, innovate solutions, and stand in solidarity to end obstetric fistula by 2030.
Every woman deserves a life free from this preventable condition, and together, we can make this a reality.
To learn more, click on https://youtu.be/33RAnuePkyA
The author, Joseph Ogutu, is the Chairman, Safaricom Foundation.