Taita Taveta County Department of Health Services

01/02/2026

The County Government of Taita Taveta, through the Department of Health Services on Saturday partnered with the Mwingoni Youth Empowerment Group in a community clean-up exercise at Moi Voi County Referral Hospital, underscoring the role of community participation in promoting public health and dignified care.

18/01/2026

Welcome to Public Participation on the Proposed ICU/HDU Block and the Supply & Installation of a Medical Oxygen Plant at Moi County Referral Hospital - Voi

Your views matter as we work together to strengthen critical care services and improve access to life-saving medical oxygen for our people. Join us and be part of building a stronger, more resilient healthcare system for Taita Taveta County.

19/12/2025

Moi County Referral Hospital - Voi has officially launched a Patient and Caregiver Support Group for persons living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), marking a major step in strengthening holistic care and psychosocial support for affected families.

The support group brings together patients and caregivers to share experiences, encourage one another and build a strong community to support the lifelong journey of SCD care.

The forum featured an interactive session led by Dr. Rebecca Wughanga Mwakichako, Consultant Hematologist at MVCRH, who provided comprehensive information on sickle cell disease, including inheritance patterns, clinical presentation, management, routine follow-up and the importance of consistent care.

“We emphasize early screening, especially for all children below one year when they visit our public health facilities. We also have dedicated sickle cell clinics at Taveta Subcounty Hospital and MVCRH,” Dr. Mwakichako noted.

Mothers of children living with SCD shared powerful lived experiences, while healthcare providers addressed medical concerns, psychosocial challenges and available support systems.

Family screening for relatives of known SCD patients was also conducted during the forum.

The launch was graced by Ms. Lea Kilenga, CEO and Executive Director of the Africa Sickle Cell Organization (ASCO) and Mr. Elly Obwaka, a Chemical Engineer and Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Both are sickle cell warriors who inspired patients and caregivers to live positively and pursue their dreams despite the diagnosis.

Mr. Obwaka, now 51 years old, encouraged mothers by sharing his personal journey, revealing that he was once told he would not live past the age of three.

“Despite the diagnosis, I have been able to pursue my dreams through consistent treatment and strictly following my doctor’s advice. A sickle cell diagnosis is not the end of life,” he said.

The event was supported by the Africa Sickle Cell Organization (ASCO), the County Government of Taita Taveta, and the dedicated MVCRH staff, who also donated Christmas gifts to the sickle cell warriors, spreading joy and hope during the festive season.

04/12/2025

The Department of Health Services conveys its sincere appreciation to USAID Stawisha Pwani for this impactful donation, which will greatly enhance TB diagnosis, treatment, and care in Taita Taveta. We also recognize and value the continued support of all our partners for their dedication to strengthening healthcare across the county.

We warmly welcome potential donors and development partners to collaborate with us, as we remain committed to strategic partnerships that promote sustainable development and improve the wellbeing of our communities.

02/12/2025

Meet Valentine Mkavita, Championing Strength, Hope, and Healthy Choices

Valentine Mkavita is a young woman who has lived with HIV since birth and has grown into a courageous advocate for positivity and healthy living. At 25, she uses her musical talent to share uplifting messages of resilience, confidence, and self-worth. Her song “Sure Sure” reminds us that HIV does not define an individual, and that with the right care and support, everyone can live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Through her story, Valentine encourages young people to take responsibility for their health. She emphasizes the importance of protecting oneself, making informed decisions, and avoiding behaviours that may compromise their wellbeing. Her journey continues to inspire openness, responsibility, and compassion within our communities.

As a Department, we stand with young people and call on them to lead with knowledge, confidence, and care for themselves and others.

30/11/2025

You’re Invited!

The County Department of Health Services, Taita Taveta County, invites you to join us for celebrations at Satoo Hall, Taveta.

Under this year’s theme, “Let Communities Lead,” we come together to learn, support, and strengthen our efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Your participation matters, let’s stand united for a healthier, empowered community.

See you at Satoo Hall!

17/11/2025

Mothers of preterm babies should be entitled to additional maternity leave corresponding to the days their babies were born early, a proposal made by Ms. Mchikwa Ndelejai, Founder of Mama Care Kenya and a preterm mother herself.

Speaking today at Moi County Referral Hospital (MCRH), Voi, during celebrations that brought together healthcare workers, preterm mothers, and families, she urged national lawmakers to amend existing maternity leave laws.

She emphasized that preterm mothers often cannot fully utilize the standard 90-day leave, which she recommended should commence immediately upon hospital discharge.

Hospital Health Administrative Officer Juma Owen acknowledged the dedication of the Newborn Unit (NBU) healthcare workers, noting that their tireless efforts are crucial in improving survival rates and outcomes for the most vulnerable patients.

Eunice Ndinda, a mother of a preterm baby who delivered early at the facility, shared her personal journey, expressing gratitude for the support she received from hospital staff.

Stephen Onyango, in charge of the Newborn Unit, highlighted improvements in the unit that have enhanced the quality of care for preterm babies and reduced referrals to other facilities.

Dr. Juliet Macharia, an obstetrician at MCRH, provided expert insights on preterm care, emphasizing the importance of proper monitoring, nutrition, and parental involvement in ensuring the survival and healthy development of preterm infants.

As part of the celebrations, Mama Care Kenya gifted mothers of preterm babies with hampers containing essential newborn items. The organization also donated chairs for use in the Newborn Unit, improving comfort for mothers and caregivers during hospital stays, breastfeeding, and Kangaroo Mother Care sessions.

The event not only commemorated World Prematurity Day but also served as a platform to educate the public, celebrate healthcare workers, and advocate for stronger support systems for preterm babies in Kenya

09/10/2025

County residents have been urged to prioritize their mental well-being by visiting health facilities for regular mental health checkups and support.

Speaking at Werugha Health Center ahead of the World Mental Health Day commemoration tomorrow, CECM for Youth and Sports Shadrack Mutungi expressed concern over the rising number of mental health cases in Taita Taveta County.

“Mental health cases are on the rise in the county. We are also witnessing an increase in su***de and gender-based violence incidents. We urge our people to come forward and seek help from our health facilities,” he said.

During the event, residents received free mental health screening, treatment and sensitization on how to manage and prevent mental health challenges.

Health Services director Elvis Mwandawiro encouraged residents to make mental wellness a personal priority, noting that good mental health contributes significantly to both social and economic productivity.

“Let us prioritize our mental health. A mentally healthy community is a more productive and cohesive one,” he stated.

The event was also attended by Special Programs CCO Harry Mkala, senior health officials and development partners who reaffirmed their commitment to promoting mental wellness across the county.

This year’s World Mental Health Day theme is “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”

15/09/2025

Let’s celebrate the dedication and impact of our healthcare providers!
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🌟Recognizing Our Frontline Health Heroes 🌟

Join us for the Taita Taveta County Health Department Best Practice Award Forum 🏆
📍 Taita Taveta National Polytechnic
on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 from 8:30am.

Let’s celebrate the dedication and impact of our healthcare providers! 💙

All are welcome.

LVCT Kenya CIHEB Kenya Amref Health Africa in Kenya

10/09/2025

NSDCC, Taita Taveta County Government Partner to Strengthen HIV/AIDS Response
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03/09/2025

Taita Taveta County Targets Triple Elimination of Mother-to-Child Infections by 2027
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03/09/2025

Health Services Chief Officer Violet Mkamburi visited Bungule Dispensary in Kasighau Ward, Voi Subcounty, to evaluate service delivery at the facility. She commended the in-charge, Gladys Mwanjama, and her team for their professionalism, dedication, and the overall cleanliness of the hospital.

Mkamburi noted that staff members were still actively attending to patients late in the day, describing this as a reflection of their strong work ethic. She was accompanied during the tour by Voi Subcounty acting team leader, John Kishagha.