In November, Hivisasa covered a story from Kisumu county, highlighting the lack of essential malaria testing kits in several hospitals. It is worth noting that Kisumu is one of the regions in the country with high malaria prevalence.
The story was covered by Kisumu based Hivisasa writer Oliver Peter. The writer highlighted that several health facilities in the county lacked Rapid Disease Test kits to a point of sending patients away.
The kits had been unavailable for some months now without any explanation from the relevant authorities.
Peter got wind of the story after receiving a tip from a local activist who had received complains from residents. Oliver interviewed the activist and later visited several facilities where he verified that the hospitals were indeed lacking the malaria testing kits.
One of the visited facilities was St. Marks Lela Health Centre, in Central Kisumu ward, Kisumu West Constituency.
Medics wondered why the government had remained mum regarding the issue bearing in mind that there are plans to introduce universal health coverage.
After publishing the story, Peter secured an interview with the Kisumu County Director for Communications Atieno Otieno. The official admitted that the County was aware that most hospitals lack the essentials, which she said are supposed to be supplied by the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA).
The writer went ahead to talk to KEMSA, who explained that they were also out of stock, and plans were underway to have the hospital restocked.
Do you know something else about this story or have a story you’d like Hivisasa to cover? Click here to become a writer or contact our writer activation manager (0712255345). By writing for Hivisasa, you become an agent of social change. You will also gain reach and prominence. To join the Hivisasa informant community, click here. As an informant, the tips you provide will generate high-impact stories in society.
Hivisasa is a collaborative news site providing untold stories to two million monthly readers around Kenya. We believe in the power of information to create positive social change and that’s why Hivisasa is open to all.
As a reader, you can read about what matters most to you while helping reward our talented pool of writers like Makori. As a writer, you can get remunerated for sharing your knowledge and growing your audience. You can also join Hivisasa as an informant to see your insight and tips turn into impactful stories.
#hivisasaimpact