In a significant boost to healthcare access for underserved residents, Vihiga County Government, in partnership with Operation International has rolled out a Free Surgical Camp at the Vihiga County Referral Hospital (VCRH). The camp, which began on June 8 and will run through Friday, June 13, is expected to benefit over 150 patients. The camp is providing both general and specialized surgical procedures, targeting conditions such as goitre, breast lumps, hernias, prostate enlargement, and ENT-related issues including nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis. "This initiative brings together a pool of highly qualified surgeons from both within Kenya and abroad," said Dr.
Wilber Ottichilo, Governor of Vihiga County. "We urge all residents with conditions that require surgical intervention to take full advantage of this rare opportunity." Dr.
Hillary Shivonje, one of the lead doctors at the camp, emphasized that the goal is to perform surgeries on at least 150 patients. "We're focusing on conditions such as goitre, lipomas, breast lumps, and ganglion cysts.
With the governor's support, we have also arranged logistics to assist patients who may struggle to reach the facility." He said. Screening and registration are currently ongoing at VCRH, with surgical services available daily from 7 AM to 5 PM. Bernice Wafubwa, a perioperative nurse at VCRH, reminded residents about the importance of registering with the Social Health Authority (SHA). "While the camp offers free surgical procedures, SHA registration is crucial for access to follow-up care and comprehensive recovery," she noted. Governor Otichillo said the initiative has been met with an overwhelmingly positive public response, with hospital administrators reporting that the outreach is already making a tangible impact in reducing the backlog of untreated surgical cases in the county and enhancing access to vital healthcare services, particularly for marginalized communities. By Marion Salano and Mukinah Terry
