In a proactive move to promote public health and curb the risk of disease outbreaks such as Typhoid and Cholera, Elgeyo Marakwet County has launched a countywide sanitation campaign targeting traders in major towns.
This comes following the rising cases of Cholera outbreak in the country which has affected the costal, Lower Eastern, and western region. As of 13 May, 244 cases and 11 deaths have been reported.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Health and Sanitation, focuses on educating hotel operators, market vendors and all food handlers about proper hygiene and waste management practices essential to safeguarding community well-being.
Speaking during a sensitization session at the Iten Fresh Produce Market, Chief Officer for Preventive and promotive Health services, Caroline Magut, emphasized the importance of early preventive action.
“This is a precautionary step. Traders have a responsibility to maintain hygiene to ensure the safety of the community,” Magut said.
She added that while there are currently no reported cases of communicable diseases, maintaining a clean environment is vital in preventing future health emergencies.
Despite welcoming the campaign, members of the local business community highlighted persistent challenges. Mathew Kurui, chairperson of the Iten Business Community, called on the county government to address longstanding concerns over inadequate sanitation infrastructure.
“The existing public facilities are in poor condition. Without proper infrastructure, sustaining good hygiene practices will be difficult,” Kurui noted.
The campaign is expected to be rolled out across other trading centers in the county, with continued collaboration between public health officials and business stakeholders.
Written by Fabian Kibet
