KILELE Health Association officially handed over the Thamani Yetu Project to the County Government of Embu on 28^th January, marking a significant milestone in the fight against cervical cancer after two years of impactful interventions.

The event, graced by Deputy Governor Embu County Justus Kinyua, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), the County Executive Committee (CEC) Health Embu County, and county health officials, also included a sensitization session to equip the leaders with critical knowledge on cancer prevention and healthcare policy.

A Legacy of Impact

Since its inception, Thamani Yetu Project has transformed cervical cancer prevention efforts in Mbeere North Sub-County, Embu County, with support from Prevent Cancer Foundation:

• Training 30 healthcare professionals in cervical cancer prevention and early detection, equipping them with expertise to effectively deliver HPV vaccination and cervical health screening services
• Screening over 1,500 women through Pap smears, High HPV tests, and VIA, and navigating positive samples for ease of access to services across the cancer care continuum
• Administering over 5,000 doses of the HPV vaccine to girls aged 10-14
• Equipping Ishiara Level 4 Hospital with advanced treatment equipments, including thermal ablators, colposcopy, and LEEP machines, enhancing local treatment capabilities
• Distributing over 5,500 educational materials to create awareness at the grassroots level and empower communities with knowledge on prevention
• Conducting capacity building and awareness sessions for over 40,000 community members, equipping them with knowledge on cancer prevention and early detection strategies
• Implementing community support groups consisting of survivors, caregivers, and community leaders.

In her speech, KILELE Health’s Founder and Executive Director, Benda Kithaka emphasized the importance of county ownership and sustainability, urging Embu’s leadership to maintain the momentum of the project’s success.

“Women and girls are at the heart of our communities, and ensuring their well-being is essential to achieving a healthier, more equitable future. The women and girls reached through this project are now secure, knowing they have a life free of cervical cancer. However, there are still communities that need awareness, education, sensitization, and mobilization through Community Health Champions to bring their eligible girls for HPV vaccination. Our people should not die of a preventable disease for lack of knowledge.”

She further urged the County Leadership to take bold steps in investing further in Ishiara Level 4 Hospital, as the facility has been a beacon of hope for the women of Embu and beyond.

“By transforming Ishiara into a referral pathway for comprehensive women’s health care, we can set a new standard for accessible and high-quality care for cervical and breast cancer.”

Sensitizing the Decision-Makers

Following the handover, KILELE Health conducted a sensitization session for MCAs and county officials, focusing on:

• Understanding the burden of cervical cancer and why it remains a priority health issue.
• The role of policymakers in ensuring budget allocations for screening, vaccination, and treatment services.
• Dispelling myths and misconceptions about cervical cancer and HPV vaccination.
• The importance of integrating cancer prevention into routine healthcare programs.

Jamal Runyenje, the CEC for Health Embu County, applauded KILELE Health’s work, stating:

“KILELE Health has not only improved healthcare infrastructure in our county but has also empowered us as leaders. This sensitization ensures we push for policies that prioritize cancer prevention and treatment for our people.”

Sustaining the Momentum

With the county government now taking ownership of the Thamani Yetu Project, key commitments include:

• Allocating county funds to support screening, treatment, and HPV vaccination.
• Strengthening healthcare facilities to provide accessible cancer services.
• Training more healthcare workers to sustain and expand screening programs.
• Engaging community health workers and local leaders in continuous awareness campaigns.
• Enhancing church sensitization programs to reach more communities.
• Expanding awareness, outreach, and training to reinforce prevention efforts.

A Future Without Cervical Cancer

The handover and sensitization mark a new era for Embu County’s healthcare system. With strong political commitment and sustained community engagement, the dream of eliminating cervical cancer is within reach.

KILELE Health remains committed to safeguarding cervical health for every woman and girl, in alignment with WHO’s global targets for cervical cancer elimination. The organization will continue to collaborate with stakeholders, working alongside the County Government and other partners to sustain and expand these critical interventions.

“We invite partners, both existing and new, to join us in this vital mission. Together, we can build a future where women’s health is prioritized, protected, and celebrated.”