The M-PESA Foundation, in partnership with Zuri Health, recently held a specialised medical camp at Moi Voi Stadium in Taita Taveta County, providing essential healthcare services to over 3,500 residents. This camp is part of a broader initiative focused on cancer-related healthcare support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Foundation has committed KES 36 million to host four cancer-themed medical camps across Kenya, offering screening and treatment for breast, prostate, cervical, and colon cancer. This initiative builds on a series of medical camps conducted since May last year, where over 3,500 patients have been screened for cancer, and 300 patients were referred for treatment.
Patricia Ithau, Trustee of M-PESA Foundation, emphasized the importance of early screening and detection:
“We decided to conduct cancer-themed medical camps this October to raise awareness, support cancer patients financially, and increase referrals to cancer facilities. We aim to promote early detection so that patients can get the treatment they need, especially in underserved communities.”
The Taita Taveta camp provided nutritional and psychosocial support for individuals diagnosed with cancer or at risk, while telemedicine consultations with oncologists ensured timely care. Additionally, the Foundation committed to offering free one-year medical cover for up to 20 cancer patients diagnosed at each camp.
This event marks the second cancer-themed camp this month, with the first held in Nairobi. The initiative will continue in Homa Bay and Murang’a counties in the coming weeks, offering comprehensive healthcare services beyond cancer care, including eye consultations, diabetes screening, hypertension monitoring, and general health consultations.
At the Taita Taveta camp, 45 patients were screened for breast, cervical, and colon cancer, while over 3,000 patients received general medical consultations.
In conclusion, Patricia Ithau highlighted the camp’s broader impact:
“In addition to cancer care, we address general health needs by offering free medical consultations, essential drugs, and screening services for non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension, along with dental and eye care.”
