The County Government of Trans Nzoia has acknowledged the vital role of the media in disseminating health information to the public, particularly in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

Speaking during a review and target-setting meeting for 2026, County NTDs Coordinator Mr. Nobert Musundi said the department has engaged media houses over the past two years to raise awareness on worms, jiggers, bilharzia, snake bites and other ailments. “Through support from AMREF Kenya and the African Institute for Health Development, our success stories have been documented, aired and published, showing how health providers are tackling NTDs in the county,” he said.

Mr. Musundi noted that the recognition comes ahead of World NTDs Day celebrations scheduled for 30th January at Chetoto Primary School.

He added that the county will unveil an impact research survey conducted by KEMRI and other partners, alongside a new approach shifting massive drug administration to community health promoters (CHPs). “We are preparing a document titled Leaving No One Behind, which will address gender exclusion in the fight against NTDs,” he said.

On her part, County Schools Health Programs Coordinator Mrs. Anne Limo said strides have been made in sensitising school children and communities. “With AMREF’s support, we distributed teachers’ guide booklets and flash discs with NTDs content, and held role plays to enhance learning. We also organised community dialogue and action days with donor support,” she explained.

Stakeholders highlighted the media’s contribution in producing radio and television stories, conducting interviews with residents, and hosting discussions that have helped change attitudes at ward and sub-county levels. The County Communication Team has also documented success stories, shared them on the county website, social media platforms and outdoor screens, and participated in global NTDs events.

Mrs. Limo said the department is planning a stakeholders’ review meeting with the County Health Management Team (CHMT) including the directors, chief officers and the CEC health to strengthen coordination.

Mr. Musundi promised to scale up media engagement. “The media has been a strong partner in this journey. We will continue working together to ensure Trans Nzoia achieves its goal of eliminating NTDs,” he said.