By Marline Atieno
In a significant move to enhance the health and educational outcomes of school-aged children, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with its partners, is intensifying efforts to implement a nationwide school deworming program.
This initiative aims to combat parasitic worm infections, which are a major public health issue in many parts of Kenya.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with its partners, runs an annual nationwide deworming program that decreases absenteeism, enhances nutritional absorption and boosts academic performance in children.
Ms. Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, recently met with a team from Evidence Action, a prominent organization focused on health interventions.
The discussion centred on essential school deworming initiatives and broader public health strategies.
There are a number of benefits of school deworming which include: Health improvements, Educational gains, Economic advantages, Social and community benefits and long-term sustainability.
School deworming programs offer a multifaceted array of benefits that extend beyond immediate health improvements.
By enhancing health, education and economic prospects, these programs contribute significantly to the overall well-being and future potential of children, their families and communities.
Investing in deworming initiatives is a strategic move towards creating a healthier, more educated, and prosperous society.
Ms. Muthoni pointed out that working with Evidence Action facilitates the execution of effective health interventions in both schools and communities.
“Collaborating with Evidence Action enables the implementation of effective health interventions in schools and communities,” stated the PS.
Ms. Muthoni emphasized that the success of the deworming program hinges on strong partnerships.
As the program moves forward, the Ministry and its partners will focus on monitoring and evaluating the impact of deworming on children’s health and education.