Equity Afya Kitengela marked its fifth anniversary by launching a new Maternal and Child Health wing and offering free cancer screening to the community.
A spirit of celebration and commitment to health care swept through Kitengela on Friday, July 25, 2025, as Equity Afya Kitengela marked its fifth anniversary with the launch of a new Maternal and Child Health (MCH) wing and the introduction of free cancer screening services.
The event, held at the clinic’s premises, drew crowds of local residents, health workers, and community leaders, all gathered to witness the milestone. The clinic, a beacon of affordable health care since its inception in 2020, used the occasion to expand its offerings, addressing critical needs in maternal and child wellness as well as early cancer detection. “This is a day of pride for us and a gift to the community we serve,” said Dr. Onsongo Boniface addressing the audience from a small stage adorned with banners
The new MCH wing, a spacious addition to the facility, features consultation rooms, a delivery suite, and a child wellness area, designed to provide comprehensive care from prenatal checkups to postnatal support. The launch coincided with the clinic’s anniversary, reflecting its growth from a modest health outpost to a trusted provider serving over 50,000 patients annually.
A dermatologist, Dr. Tatio Saning'o preparing the wing for its first patients remarked, “We’ve waited for this moment to offer mothers and children the care they deserve.” The free cancer screening initiative, running throughout the day, targeted breast and cervical cancer, offering tests to both men and women, with a focus on early detection to improve outcomes in Kajiado East region where such services are often out of reach.
The anniversary celebration began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by local leaders including the nominated MCA of Kitengela, area chief amongst other guest of honors and Equity Afya representatives, who highlighted the clinic’s journey. Since opening its doors, Equity Afya Kitengela has provided accessible health care, leveraging a network of professionals and community outreach to bridge gaps in service delivery. The MCH wing’s introduction responds to rising demand, with maternal and child health indicators showing persistent challenges in Kajiado County, where the clinic operates. A mother waiting for a prenatal checkup said, “Having this here saves me the trip to Nairobi; it’s a blessing for us.” The cancer screening, offered free until 5:00 PM, saw long lines, with staff managing a steady flow of participants eager to benefit.
The MCH services include antenatal care, immunizations, and nutritional counseling, tailored to support families from pregnancy through early childhood. Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents praising the clinic’s efforts to address health disparities. A cancer survivor, in attendance noted, “we didn’t know early enough; this screening could change lives.” The initiative aligns with broader health goals, targeting a population where awareness and access to cancer care remain limited.
The event featured health education sessions, with clinicians explaining the importance of regular screenings and maternal care. A doctor leading a session on breast cancer awareness said, “Early detection can save lives; we’re here to make that possible.” Participants received informational pamphlets and had the chance to ask questions, fostering a dialogue on preventive health. The clinic’s staff, numbering over 30, worked tirelessly, managing consultations and screenings, while community health volunteers assisted with crowd control.
Equity Afya Kitengela’s growth reflects a broader mission to deliver patient-centered care across Kenya, with the Kitengela branch serving as a model. The clinic’s anniversary celebrations included cultural performances by local dance groups, adding a festive air to the proceedings. A community elder addressing the crowd said, “This clinic has become part of our family; today’s launch strengthens that bond.” The MCH wing, equipped with modern diagnostic tools, aims to reduce maternal mortality rates, a concern in areas where skilled birth attendance is scarce.
The free cancer screening drew particular attention, with over 150 people registered by midday. Staff used portable mammography units and rapid HPV tests, offering results within hours to encourage follow-up care. A man in his fifties, receiving his screening results, said, “I came because my brother had cancer; knowing I’m clear gives me peace.” The clinic partnered with local organizations including schools to provide referrals for those needing further treatment, ensuring a continuum of care.
Public sentiment in Kitengela and surrounding areas reflected a mix of gratitude and anticipation. The clinic’s outreach has historically included mobile clinics, and the anniversary event hinted at plans to extend MCH and screening services to rural outposts in Kajiado. The clinic’s model, blending affordability with quality, has earned it a loyal following, with patients traveling from as far as Machakos to access care. The MCH wing’s launch included a dedication ceremony, where a local pastor offered a prayer for the facility’s success.
The launch aligns with broader health trends, with maternal and child health remaining a priority in Kenya. The cancer screening initiative addresses a gap, as late diagnoses often lead to poor outcomes. A nurse reflecting on the day said, “Every person we screen today could mean a life saved tomorrow.” The clinic plans to evaluate the event’s impact, with data on screening turnout and MCH uptake to guide future efforts.
Communities across Kajiado County shared stories of the day’s significance. In Kitengela’s markets, a shopkeeper serving customers noted, “It’s a step forward, but we need it to continue.” The event’s success has sparked discussions on expanding such services, with local leaders promising to advocate for support. A youth leader organizing a community meeting reflected, “This shows what we can achieve together.” The clinic’s fifth anniversary marks a milestone, with its new initiatives poised to shape health care delivery in the region.
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