By Eddah Waithaka
The Catholic Diocese of Malindi, through its Health Commission, and the African Health and Economic Transformation Initiative (AHETI) opened a free two-day medical camp today at Msabaha Catholic Dispensary, delivering lifesaving screenings and vaccinations to underserved communities in Kilifi County.
Running from July 18 to 19, the camp provides cervical, breast, and prostate cancer screenings, alongside HPV vaccinations for eligible girls and young women.
Faith leaders and organizers describe the initiative as a direct response to severe health disparities in the region particularly among women, children, and low-income families.
Malindi Sub-County faces some of Kenya’s most alarming health challenges. The area records a maternal mortality ratio of 428 deaths per 100,000 live births far exceeding the national average.
Only 35% of pregnant women receive skilled care, while cervical cancer, a leading cause of death goes largely undetected, with fewer than 20% of women ever screened. Despite government efforts, just 16% of eligible girls have completed the HPV vaccine series.
With the nearest oncology services located in Mombasa, over 120 km away, many patients struggle to access timely treatment.
“We are restoring dignity and ensuring no one gets left behind,” said Rt. Rev. Willybard Kitogho Lagho, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Malindi.
“Our faith calls us to act, to reach the forgotten, the poor, and the sick with compassion.”
Faith-based groups, trusted by over 90% of Africans, are increasingly bridging gaps in public health. AHETI and the Catholic Church are leveraging this trust to combat medical misinformation and expand grassroots care.
“Faith institutions are Africa’s untapped health infrastructure,” said Fr. Charles Chilufya, S.J., AHETI Director.
“This partnership proves what’s possible when faith and development unite—credible, compassionate, community-driven care.”
The camp expects to serve 2,000+ people over two days, with support from Rahma Worldwide and other partners. Beyond screenings, it offers health education and links patients to long-term care, a critical step toward closing Kilifi’s healthcare gaps.
AHETI, a faith-based coalition of health professionals, economists, and religious leaders, works to advance health and economic justice across Africa.
Read More Stories At: https://africawatchnews.co.ke/
