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Category: HEALTH

  • Harm Reduction Should Guide Regulations in Public Healthcare

    Harm Reduction Should Guide Regulations in Public Healthcare

    Stakeholders in the health sector have been challenged to consider harm reduction as a key guide in driving public health strategies in Africa.

     

    Harm reduction refers to interventions aimed at reducing the negative effects of health behaviours without necessarily extinguishing the problematic health behaviours entirely or permanently.

    Speaking during the third annual Harm Reduction Exchange themed: ‘Amplifying the voice of Harm Reduction advocacy across Africa’, the president of the African Medical Association and the Association of Medical Councils of Africa Dr. Kgosi Letlape challenged African governments to adopt harm reduction approaches when regulating public health challenges.

    Harm reduction, he said, is a more transformative strategy than prohibition-based policies and is better than simply advocating for complete abstinence. Harm reduction is a better approach to reducing tobacco-related death and disease.

     

    “Harm reduction is a practical and transformative approach that incorporates community-driven public health strategies including prevention, risk reduction, and health promotion to empower people who use drugs and their families with the choice to live healthy and self-directed,” Dr. Kgosi said.

     

    “We hope that our lobbying efforts will spark renewed conversations on tobacco harm reduction among all stakeholders, including regulators and policymakers, which could lead to effective regulation and access to noncombustible product alternatives for adult smokers who are unable or uninterested in quitting.”

     

    Across the world, harm reduction strategies have been deployed in public health as a pragmatic and compassionate approach to address various issues, particularly in the context of substance use and other risky behaviors. Some of these strategies include Needle Exchange Programs, supervised injection sites, condom distribution, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), Vaping and E-Cigarettes, and supervised consumption of medications.

     

    “Organizations that practice harm reduction incorporate a spectrum of strategies that meet people where they are on their own terms and may serve as a pathway to additional health and social services, including additional prevention, treatment, and recovery services,” Dr. Vivianne Manyeki said.

     

    On her part, Integra Africa Principal Dr. Tendai Mhizha emphasized the role that journalists and media houses should play in handling misinformation and disinformation in tobacco harm reduction discussions.

     

    “The media play a critical role in accelerating the progress towards full uptake of harm reduction strategies in all spheres of health across the continent. With the advent of technology, we find that misinformation and disinformation are becoming increasingly prevalent with the democratization of the information space. Moving forward, there is a need to ensure that stakeholders are well informed with current and relevant information about the science, the changes that occur and how we can advance towards a smoke-free world,” Dr. Tendai said.

     

    Raising awareness for tobacco harm reduction (THR) as a public health strategy encourages adult smokers who are unable or uninterested in quitting tobacco altogether to migrate to noncombustible product alternatives. THR has the potential to bring about one of the greatest public health achievements of our time,” said Dr. Tendai.

    “Harm reduction is the better path forward. With harm reduction, regulators provide adult smokers with information, choice and support to expand the off-ramp from smoking – while also continuing to drive down underage use. Providing adult smokers with less harmful alternatives to cigarettes is a powerful step in achieving this goal,” Public Health Specialist and Secretary General of Harm Reduction Society in Kenya, Dr. Michael Kariuki said.

    Several African countries have already implemented THR policies and programs. For example, South Africa has legalized the sale of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Kenya has also taken steps to regulate THR products and is considering legalizing e-cigarettes.

     

    The harmonization of public healthcare regulation of THR products in Africa would be a positive step towards reducing the harms associated with tobacco use. It would also signal that African governments are committed to public health and protecting their citizens from the dangers of tobacco smoke.

     

    By Ogott Eric

  • Youth Decry Foul Play and Discrimination in Counties Devolved Functions

    Youth in Innovation initiatives in Nairobi County

    By Henry Owino

    Kenya is marking the tenth year of its devolution in place since 2013 when the first regime came into power. This was 3 years after promulgation of the Constitution 2010 thereby terminating the 1963 Constitution of centralized government.

    The County Governments are convening in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County to mark 10 years of devolution existence. The Council of Governors (CoG) are therefore holding the 8th Devolution Conference 2023 from 15th-19th August, 2023.

    The Council of Governors has successfully organized Seven Devolution Conferences across various thematic areas. This will be the First Biennial Devolution Conference after it was reviewed to have it held after every two years.

    While everybody admits that devolution has brought decision-making closer to the people, the young people are of different opinions. The argument is that they have been relegated and completely forgotten in counties activities and programs.

    Youth are up in arms complaining of discrimination regardless of their skills, knowledge and technical know-how. None want to listen to youth imperative efforts of advancing collective inclusion in county initiatives.

    The young people now want their voices be heard in this year’s Biennial Devolution Conference in Uasin Gishu County. They are sending representatives to meeting to echo their grievances which have fallen into deaf years for long.

    According to Mary Wanjiru, Coordinator Activista, many youth have tried to make devolution work for them through innovative skills but always get disappointed. A few are used to market the county programs then short changed when funds are available.

    Wanjiru urges the county government to include youth in devolution processes if they endeavor prosper just like a few have done. This is because other counties have realized young people are noble and pragmatic necessity for fostering resilient communities when in included decision-making.

    “Youth constitute significant portion of our population and are key stakeholders in the future development of our counties,” Wanjiru argued. Their active involvement ensures that policies and projects are relevant, responsive, and reflective of the needs of all citizens,” she affirmed.

    Wanjiru emphasized that Kenyans are aware that Constitution 2010 envisioned decentralized decision-making, resource allocation, and uniform development in every part of Kenya. True to the spirit, devolution has brought decision-making closer to the people and has proven, in some counties, the potential to address localized challenges effectively.

    However, for devolution to succeed in its objectives, it is imperative to include the perspectives and aspirations of young people. This is because youth are so creative and innovative and when their skills are tapped, it becomes catalyst of empowerment for county developments.

    Subsequently, Wanjiru cautions that approach must align with the broader goals of long term, sustainable development and economic growth. By so doing, it provides youth with tools to actively participate in shaping their communities.

    Victoria Adhiambo, Coordinator, Young Urban Women underscored the significance of nurturing the skills youth have to benefit counties. It is important to recognize the skills as indispensable expertise for their roles are not only for county developments but global progress as well.

    Adhiambo hinted that this year Devolution Conference’s Theme is; “10 years of Devolution: the Present and Future,” resonates deeply well with the potential and significance of the youth, who embody both the present and future of this great nation called Kenya.

    “The engagement and empowerment of our youth population are pivotal not only for the success of devolution initiatives but also for overall growth and sustainability of our communities,” Adhiambo stated.

    Majority of youth leadership during the meeting unanimously resolved that it is high time counties infuse youth in their initiatives. It is best way of elevating the young people’s banner of skills towards development.

    The leaders suggested that county governments can use their influential position to connect youth with agencies for partnership. It will help youth mold their destinies and actively contribute to regions’ growth.

    “Some of our recommendation here can be implemented comprehensively without further delay, fostering an environment wherein our youth will evolve from being passive beneficiaries to engaged architects of devolution,” anticipated Kevin Kiogora, Youth & Community leader for Good Governance and Climate Action champion.

    The other recommended initiatives listed by the young people include; Community engagement where workshops are organized, involving youth in town hall meetings, and youth-led forums that facilitate open dialogue between young people and local authorities. Such platforms would encourage youth to voice their opinions, propose ideas, and actively contribute to the decision-making processes of the county thus meaningful public participation.

    Entrepreneurial support through establishing mentorship, incubation, and support networks for young entrepreneurs. They said it will encourage innovation, job creation, and economic diversification at the grassroots level.

    Promote digital literacy among youth to enable them harness technology for personal and community development. Digital skills are essential for communication, accessing information, and participating in an increasingly digital world.

    Encourage skills training programs through collaboration with educational institutions, vocational training centers, and industry partners to design and implement skills training programs that equip young people with practical, market relevant skills.

    The youth however suggested that the programs should encompass a diverse range of fields, from technology and entrepreneurship to agriculture and healthcare.

    “We put emphasis on Green skills because it requires; knowledge, abilities, values, and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society,” Kiogora explained. These skills will not only help in addressing the climate crisis but also in helping achieve SDGs,” he added.

    The youth who excel in various initiatives should be recognized and celebrated for their achievement and significant contribution to their communities as young individuals, team or organizations. Again, such youth achievements need to be encouraged by letting their representation in local councils, committees, and decision-making bodies in the counties or in national conferences.

     

     

     

     

     

  • M.P. Shah Hospital Unveils State-of-the-Art Maternity Wing, Ushering in a New Era of Care for Expectant Mothers

    M.P. Shah Hospital Unveils State-of-the-Art Maternity Wing, Ushering in a New Era of Care for Expectant Mothers

    By Steve Sabai

    Nairobi, 3rd August 2023 – M.P. Shah Hospital is proud to announce the grand inauguration of its new, cutting-edge Maternity Wing, set to revolutionize maternal care in the region. The esteemed colourful event took place at the hospital’s premises marking a significant milestone for the hospital and its commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services to expectant mothers and their newborns.

    The Maternity Wing is an ambitious project that signifies the hospital’s dedication to enhancing the healthcare experience for patients in Kenya and beyond. The new wing has been designed with the most modern and advanced facilities, making it one of the finest maternity care centres in the country. With this state-of-the-art facility, M.P. Shah Hospital aims to set new standards in maternal care, ensuring the well-being of both mothers and their infants. Key features of the Maternity Wing include; 1.Spacious and Comfortable Private Rooms.The wing offers spacious and luxurious private rooms, designed to provide a serene and relaxing environment for mothers during their stay. 2.Advanced Neonatal Care Unit: A dedicated Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) equipped with cutting-edge technology, ensuring the best care for premature or high-risk newborns. 3.Well-Equipped Delivery Suites: Modern labour and delivery suites that cater to the individual needs of expectant mothers, with a focus on safety and comfort. 4.Expert Medical Team: M.P. Shah Hospital has a team of highly skilled and experienced obstetricians, gynaecologistsneonatologists, and nursing staff, ensuring the highest quality of care for all patients. 5.Family-Centred Care:

    CS Hon Nakhumicha,Chairman Dr Manoj Shah (left) and Mp Sha Hospital’s CEO Dr Toseef Din.

    The Maternity Wing is designed to support a family-cantered approach to care, encouraging the active participation of family members in the birthing process. To celebrate this momentous occasion, M.P. Shah Hospital hosted an inauguration ceremony, attended by Cabinet secretary Ministry of Health Hon. Susan Nakhumicha Nafula, Chairman Dr.Manoj Shah, Board of Govenor’s, and prominent dignitaries. The event highlighted the hospital’s commitment to raising the bar for maternal healthcare and its dedication to providing exceptional quality services to the community.
    The Health CS lauded MP Shah Hospital not only for the contribution towards reduced maternal mortality and improved outcomes of the newborn, but also for the focus towards a Center of Excellence for Maternal and Child Health. The integrated maternal and child health services at the KPJ medical center and the Pediatric Medical Center resonate with the Ministry’s goals.
    The Ministry recognized the Mp shah Hospital for the focus on training and education through the recently opened nursing school.

    The CS also congratulated the hospital for improving a woman’s experience of a difficult process called labour and delivery. Eleanor Roosevelt said “A woman is like a tea bag, you never know how strong she is, until she gets into hot water”. With the efforts displayed today.
    Dr.Toseef Din, CEO of M.P. Shah Hospital, expressed her gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful completion of the Maternity Wing project. She acknowledged achievements in the inauguration of M.P Shah hospitals’ new Maternity Wing in the region.

    The achievement possible with the support from M.P Shah Hospital Board Members, Partners and Staffs. The opening of the Maternity Wing reflects M.P. Shah Hospital’s continued investment in providing exceptional healthcare facilities and services for the community. With this addition, the hospital reinforces its position as a leading healthcare institution, focused on delivering excellence in patient care. .

  • Summit urges African Governments to Promote Sustainable and Humane Animal Production Systems

    Summit urges African Governments to Promote Sustainable and Humane Animal Production Systems

    The 2nd Africa Protein Summit organized by World Animal Protection has called on the African Governments to promote sustainable and humane animal production systems to promote climate restoration.

    Dr. Victor Yamo, The Farming Campaigns Manager at World Animal protection said; “The rapid growth of the human population particularly in Africa, coupled with increasing affluence, has led to a surge in demand for animal products. Consequently, intensification of livestock production is gaining popularity to meet this demand. However, intensive livestock production is associated with significant animal abuse, water and environmental pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss and increased greenhouse gas emissions, making it an unsustainable method of food production.”

    The two-day Protein Summit highlighted the urgent need to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of intensive livestock production systems and emphasized the importance of preserving traditional, resilient, and humane production systems that support small-scale farmers in the region.

    In the summit, presenters highlighted numerous negative impacts associated with intensive livestock production systems, including compromised animal welfare, public health concerns, and adverse effects on the environment and climate such as increased greenhouse gas emissions through deforestation for animal feed production and high fertilizer use. The excessive nutrient excretion from overfed animals further contributes to higher emissions. These negative externalities are often overlooked, particularly in developing nations striving to combat poverty and achieve food security.

    The Summit recognized that Africa’s green house gas emissions are mainly from the Agriculture, Forestry and other land-use change estimated at 65% of the continent’s emissions. It was further recognized that whilst there is room for the lowest meat consumption countries in Africa to increase rates of meat consumption to meet nutritional needs, embracing intensive livestock production systems will not only endanger food and nutrition security but also the livelihoods of small holder producers while worsening the superbug crisis and the climate crisis.

    The meeting agreed to call on African governments to:

    1. Acknowledge and regulate the green house gas emissions from animal agriculture and hold agricultural companies with high emissions accountable for their carbon footprint and low regard for animal welfare.
    2. Protect small holder livestock producers by empowering them with animal husbandry knowledge and skills while providing them with timely climate information and early warning systems to stay competitive in the market.
    3. Redirect subsidies provided to large agribusinesses towards smallholders, who are the backbone in feeding the growing population in Africa.
    4. Increase awareness on alternative protein sources that can be used to meet nutrition requirements while directing resources towards awareness creation to achieve attitude and behaviour change from intensive meat consumption to alternative protein sources.
    5. Finally, African governments need to bring stakeholders together to create a policy statement on sustainable agricultural production. All food systems actors must be engaged in a dialogue towards a humane and sustainable food system.
  • Launch of the Nairobi Declaration Call for Domestic Resource Mobilization to finance Health in Africa

    Launch of the Nairobi Declaration Call for Domestic Resource Mobilization to finance Health in Africa

    Parliamenterians in Africa from different states namely;Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, DRC, Ghana, Kenya, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Zambia and Zimbambwe, gathered at a conference in Nairobi on 11th & 12th July 2023 at the sidelines of the African Union Summit, to reflect and discuss health financing in Africa.
    Cognisant of the need to formalize genuine collaboration between parliamentarians and Civil Society, they proposed for an effective advocacy program on sustainable domestic resource mobilization for health in Africa, through a platform for exchanging information, sharing best practices, strengthening political and synergies.
    The recommendations, resulted in the creation of the Parliamentarian Task Force on Domestic Resource Mobilization for Health in Africa, with the objectives of engaging parliamentarians in their respective countries on issues such as the mobilization of national resources for health; strengthening of community health; universal health coverage; and addressing gaps in funding for the fight against HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria. support of this declaration.
    The parliamentarians also subscribed to sustainable health funding moving forward.
    The African Union member states subscribed to a solid normative legal framework on the right to health, they also committed to its Agenda 2063, whose aim is to transform the potential threat posed by the expected doubling of its young population by 2050, into a “demographic dividend”, bringing economic growth and higher living standards, and they also subscribed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to significantly increase the health budget to ensure that everyone benefits from universal health coverage (UHC).
    Heads of state and government  also made declarations and commitments on health financing, notably at the 32nd Ordinary Conference of the African Union in Addis Ababa in February 2019, during which they endorsed the deliberations of the African Leaders’ Meeting (ALM) and adopted declarations in favor of mobilizing domestic resources for health financing in Africa.
    Notably, many African states are struggling to meet their commitments to mobilize domestic resources, yet investing in health is investing in human capital, creating stable jobs, stimulating economic growth and reducing inequalities.
     The parliamentarians are committed to advocate for: Domestic resource mobilization for health including push for the move from commitment to action, co-financing of Global Fund and other development partners’ programs for HIV, TB and Malaria to build equitable and resilient health systems, focused on people centered approach and integrated health services (addressing HIV, TB and Malaria and other health issues based on people’s needs and disease burden),
    Community Health system strengthening, including ensuring a recognized status for Community Health Workers, financing of Community Health Strategy, support for community-led responses, and incorporation of community, rights and gender considerations in HIV, TB and malaria programming;
    Incorporating universal health coverage as a goal in national health policy frameworks, strategically connected to broader inter-ministerial priorities such as emergency preparedness, social stability, climate, economy and finance,
    Bridging financial and implementation gaps of HIV, TB, Malaria, Health Systems Strengthening, Pandemic Prevention Preparedness and Response and Community Health Systems in the National Strategic Plans for the countries;
    Establish a space for exchange and sharing of good practices among parliamentarians from different regions of Africa,
    Create synergies with civil society on Domestic Resource Mobilization for Health in Africa.
  • Westlands Laser Eye Hospital Crowned For Quality Health Care

    Westlands Laser Eye Hospital Crowned For Quality Health Care

    Westlands Laser Eye Hospital was Crowned for Quality health care and Dr.Vaibhav Pednekar also awarded ‘ Doctor of the Year’

    The eye is the most important part of the human body. So to speak, other than vision , the eyes also function as the windows to the soul.

    But majority of Kenyans when they have eye problems they seek treatment at general health facilities.

    But there’s some good news. Westlands Laser Eye Hospital offers speciality in eye care.

    “We provides a complete spectrum of eye care services like Laser Cataract Surgery, Lasik Surgery, Cornea Transplant, Retina Surgeries, etc. under one roof.,” says Dr. Vaibhav Pednekar , CEO and Managing Director of Westlands Laser Eye Hospital who was recently crowned by Pacesetters Awards.

     

    Westlands Laser Eye Hospital’s specialist doctors have extensive knowledge and experience in offering all type of eye problems related treatment to the patient based on the requirement,” he said.

    Any Kenyan with an eye issue or disorder can feel free to contact Westlands Laser Eye Hospital.

    Contact of westlands laser eye hospital is 0703112233

  • Kesha Gorajia Wins Artcaffé’s 2nd edition of Art of the City Campaign

    Kesha Gorajia Wins Artcaffé’s 2nd edition of Art of the City Campaign

    ·       #HerStory campaign themed on celebrating women who have shaped society, symbolized through artistic expression

    ·       Over 270 submissions received from professional and beginner artists

    ·       3 winners chosen: Kesha Gorajia (1st), Cecilia Gakenia (1st runner up) & Victor Nderitu (2nd runner up). People’s choice elected by public voting: Dennis Andrew

    The 2nd Edition of Art of the City Campaign by Artcaffe saw Kesha Gorajia emerge as the Overall winner of the competition which was launched during this year’s International Women’s Day under the theme “Her Story” aimed to celebrate and empower women through the power of art.

    Kesha Gorajia’s exceptional talent and artistic vision captivated the judges and stood out among numerous impressive entries. Her artwork beautifully conveyed the essence of the theme “Her Story,” reflecting the diverse narratives, struggles, and triumphs of women from all walks of life.

    The competition which was launched on International Women’s Day under the theme #HerStory seeks to celebrate women around the world who have made meaningful impacts with their role in society and how the artist perceives this, creatively. From mothers to sisters, wives to friends, the art submitted celebrated women’s achievements and sought to inspire through expressive forms of art. Submissions were made digitally.

    Judges Cyprian Kiswili (winner of the 1st edition of the Art of the City campaign held in 2020) and Adrian Nduma (celebrated artist, regularly displays at Artcaffé branches) had a challenging task ahead of them: filtering through 270 submissions from professional & amateur artists, children and adults alike.

    Cyprian added: “Art is a powerful tool in our society. Through art, we have seen movements happen and conversations shift. This year’s theme encouraged brilliant submissions, forcing people to look within themselves and understand what role women played in their life. It’s been powerful to see different approaches to the theme that all celebrated women.”

    This year’s winners included:

    • Overall winner: Kesha Gorajia
    • 1st runner up: Cecilia Gakenia
    • 2nd runner up: Victor Nderitu
    • People’s choice award (selected by public votes on Artcaffé’s social media pages): Dennis Andrew

    The overall winner received a cash prize of KSH150,000 and a chance to exhibit and sell their work at an Artcaffé restaurant. In addition, artworks from the 4 winners will be printed on the iconic Artcaffè coffee cups and displayed on the Artcaffé website.

    Artcaffé’s commitment to the arts extends beyond showcasing art in their restaurants, which is where it all began. The brand goes beyond just a café but a cultural space that aims to continually transform the way Kenyans experience art and gastronomy. Working closely with up-and-coming artists and galleries, they have built a more vibrant and inclusive art scene within Nairobi. They seek to foster a sense of community among artists and art enthusiasts, making art more accessible and less intimidating.

    Kari Mutu, co-chair of the Affordable Art Show stated: “It’s nice to see corporates like Artcaffé supporting the arts which is what this industry needs to get it going and get people to know about it. Thank you for creating opportunities for artists to showcase their work.”

    To up-and-coming artists, Adrian Nduma adds: “More and more people are embracing art in their organizations and pursuits. Keep expressing yourself more. Someone, somewhere will notice.”

    Artwork submissions can be viewed here: https://online.fliphtml5.com/bknyk/usmd/#p=1

    Here are our talented and inspirational top 3 winners. Hear their story, share in their creativity and of course applaud the talent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHa3r0pMyFM

  • AA Kenya Partners With AMREF Flying Doctors to Save Motorist Lives

    AA Kenya Partners With AMREF Flying Doctors to Save Motorist Lives

    ·       The partnership, which offers emergency air and ground medical evacuation service, will give members direct access to AMREF Flying Doctors’ 24-hour control centre, staffed by qualified medical practitioners.

    ·       AA Kenya Premier and Prestige members will get free ground and air evacuation services. Members from other categories will access the same services at a discounted fee of Kshs. 2,500 per annum.

    AA Kenya has partnered with AMREF Flying Doctors to offer Maisha Membership, an air and ground ambulance scheme for its members.

    The partnership is aimed at safeguarding motorists and their families in the event of road accidents. This reduces further injuries or fatalities recorded during accident evacuations. Data from AA Kenya shows that over 50 per cent of fatalities from road accidents are as a result of inadequate medical skills among the first responders.

    Speaking at the partnership launch, AMREF Flying Doctors Medical Director Dr Joseph Lelo expressed his utmost appreciation for the collaboration, emphasizing its significance.

    “The partnership between AMREF Flying Doctors and AA Kenya is a commendable initiative, as it allows us to extend our services to their esteemed members, enabling them to avail themselves of life-saving medical evacuation services and prompt emergency roadside rescue. We are thrilled to offer these critical services at a significantly reduced membership cost, starting as low as Kes 2500 per year. This partnership directly addresses the needs of individuals who prioritize the peace of mind that comes with reliable medical assistance in times of a crisis.”

    Under this partnership, AA Kenya Premier and Prestige members will get free ground and air evacuation services. Additionally, other AA members will get access to the same services at a discounted fee of Kshs. 2,500 per annum for unlimited air and ground ambulance services in case of medical emergencies.

    This partnership is an integral part of AA Kenya’s commitment to road safety and prioritizing the well-being of its members and their loved ones in the event of unforeseen accidents or emergencies.

    In his remarks, AA Kenya CEO, Mr Francis Theuri emphasized the importance of preparedness and swift response in the event of road accidents. “This partnership means that we are putting lives first before anything else. Therefore, as we are taking care of the vehicles, AMREF will be taking care of the lives” said Theuri.

    Through this service, AA Kenya members will have direct access to AMREF Flying Doctors’ 24-hour control centre, staffed by qualified medical practitioners who can offer invaluable medical advice. The partnership eliminates the need for third-party intermediaries, allowing members to access air ambulance services directly.

    Besides, this marks a significant milestone in enhancing the safety and well-being of AA Kenya members. These two organizations are poised to positively impact emergency response and save lives across Kenya by joining forces.

    AA Kenya and AMREF Flying Doctors have been in existence for 104 and 60 years respectively. 

  • Animal Protection Calls on the Public to Eat Less Meat

    Animal Protection Calls on the Public to Eat Less Meat

    World Animal Protection, a leading  animal welfare organization,  calls on you to reduce the amount of meat you eat. In a campaign dubbed #EatLessMeat, the organization notes that rapid population growth has led to an increase in demand for meat globally leading to suffering of animals in farms and climate change.

    The #Eatlessmeat campaign aims to raise awareness about the negative impacts of high meat consumption amidst rising population, drastic climate changes and poor human health and intensification of animal farming.

    Speaking at the event launch, Dr, Victor Yamo, the Food systems Campaign Manager at World Animal Protection singled out intensive animal farming as the biggest contributors of animal suffering, deteriorating human health and climate damage.

    “Over 50 billion farm animals are factory farmed every year, with around two in every three animals raised in intensive systems that prioritize production over welfare and health. This approach to farming places a heavy burden on precious resources, such as grain-based feed, water, energy, and medication, and contributes to a range of issues, including environmental pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, disease, and food insecurity.” He said.

    “Factory farming is not just bad for animals, it’s dangerous, unfair, and dirty, with significant impacts on human health and the environment,” said Dr. Victor Yamo, the Farming Campaigns Manager at World Animal Protection. “By promoting the #EatLessMeat campaign, we are encouraging people to make informed choices about their diet and reduce their demand for factory-farmed animal products.”

    To #EatLessMeat, World Animal Protection recommends taking several steps, such as identifying a meat-free day, swapping regular meat dishes with delicious meat-free alternatives, reducing meat portion on your plate and talking to a nutritionist for advice on meat-free protein alternatives. Individuals can also pledge to #EatLessMeat on the campaign page www.worldanimalprotection.or.ke/EatLessMeat  and encourage your family and friends to act too.

    Why you should #EatLessMeat?

     

    1. For Animals

    The market forces are always driven by demand and supply. By consuming less meat, there is a reduced demand which eases the pressure of producers turning to intensive factory farming to supply animal products. This directly translates to

    an improved lifestyle for farmed animals.

    1. For Better Human Health

    Excessive meat consumption contributes to malnutrition in all its forms including obesity (leading to noncommunicable diseases).

    Factory farms that supply meat are characterized by substandard husbandry practices and poor animal welfare, leading to the increased use of antimicrobials which can spill over to humans through meat.

    consumed and are connected to the emergence of AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) and a range of zoonotic pathogens.

    iii.             For the Planet

    Intensive animal farming is the biggest contributor to climate change, which is the

    world’s biggest threat. Livestock production contributes to more greenhouse gas emissions than all forms of transport combined.

    Deforestation is the second-largest driver of global warming. Reducing the demand for livestock products can reduce the need for destructive deforestation and mitigate its climate repercussions.

  • Dr. Nyongesa Thumbs Up Initiative of Pfizer

    Dr. Catherine Nyongesa, the founder of Texas Cancer Center, has taken a moment to underscore the exemplary work done by Pfizer. Dr. Nyongesa notes:

    “It is encouraging to see pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer supporting patient advocacy efforts and promoting a holistic approach to cancer care. By collaborating with healthcare professionals, leveraging digital technology, and empowering patients to be active participants in their own treatment journey, the industry can contribute to improving the quality of life for cancer patients.

    The call for increased patient involvement in cancer research and treatment is crucial to address the challenges faced by cancer patients in Kenya. By listening to patient perspectives, engaging in evidence-based solutions, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders, it is possible to improve the quality of cancer care, reduce the burden of the disease, and ultimately save lives.”

    On Wednesday, Pfizer Oncology Medical Manager for East Africa Dr. Josephine Muiru said, “We have not yet found a way to prevent or cure all cancers, so it is vital that we are listening to people living with these diseases and supporting them with a holistic cancer care approach. At Pfizer we remain committed to providing this support, from working with healthcare professionals to help them to understand the needs of people living with cancer and how to best communicate with them, to leveraging digital technology to empower them to learn about their own disease and treatment options and to improve their quality of life.”