Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Kiambu County have been trained on female genital fistula prevention, identification, and referral pathways in a county-wide sensitization program. The initiative covered Gatundu North, Gatundu South, Thika, and Kabete Sub-Counties, aiming to strengthen community-level interventions.
The training focused on equipping CHPs with comprehensive knowledge on fistula, a condition often caused by prolonged obstructed labor. Participants learned how to recognize early symptoms, understand underlying causes, and provide appropriate community guidance. The program also emphasized the importance of addressing the social stigma associated with the condition, which often prevents women from seeking timely medical care.
County health officials highlighted that early identification and referral are critical in managing fistula cases effectively. CHPs were taught the correct pathways for directing affected women to health facilities where corrective treatment can be accessed.
“This sensitization is vital in empowering our community health promoters. By equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills, we can prevent fistula cases, reduce stigma, and ensure that affected women receive treatment early,” said a County Health representative.
The initiative is part of a broader county strategy to improve maternal health outcomes and enhance reproductive health services. By focusing on community-based interventions, Kiambu County hopes to increase awareness, encourage early medical consultation, and reduce the long-term complications associated with untreated fistula.
CHPs play a central role in bridging the gap between health facilities and the community. Their presence allows residents in remote areas to receive timely information, guidance, and referrals, which is especially important in areas where awareness about maternal health issues is low.
Health officials further urged communities to support affected women, highlighting that social support and understanding are crucial in recovery and reintegration. The sensitization also included discussions on the psychological and social challenges women with fistula face, ensuring CHPs are prepared to provide both medical and emotional support at the community level.
The Kiambu County Department of Health Services said the program would continue to engage more CHPs across other sub-counties in the coming months, with the aim of building a strong network of trained community advocates for maternal and reproductive health.
 in Kiambu County have been trained on female genital fistula prevention, identification, and referral pathways in a county-wide sensitization program. The initiative covered Gatundu North, Gatundu South, Thika, and Kabete Sub-Counties, aiming to strengthen community-level interventions.){kind=link}