The County Government of Uasin Gishu Department of Health Services on Friday received 51 Cold Chain Equipment (Fridges) from UNICEF through the Ministry of Health.

The Ksh. 100 million equipment will be used for the Immunization Program. The fridges will be delivered to 51 health facilities identified across the six sub-counties.

Expressing gratitude for the support, Uasin Gishu County Deputy Governor Eng. John Barorot stated: “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to UNICEF for their commitment to enhancing our Immunization Program.”

“These fridges will play a crucial role in ensuring that our target population has easy access to vital immunization services.”

Eng. Barorot added: “Uasin Gishu County has a catchment population of 41,000 children under one year. Currently, we are at 85 percent (January) immunization coverage as compared to the required 90 percent target. Cumulatively, we are at 88 percent average for the past 12 months as a county,” added the Deputy Governor.

Through the provision of equipment, UNICEF actively collaborates with the immunization program by facilitating outreaches and support supervision.

The DG added: “UNICEF’s ongoing support reflects a shared dedication to reaching every child. The collaboration allows us to conduct outreaches and provide necessary supervision, ensuring that all our children receive the care they deserve.”

The DG highlighted the significance of the new equipment, stating that the fridges signify a substantial upgrade to existing infrastructure. “They will not only enhance our ability to provide quality healthcare but also support immunization activities in our newly established facilities.”

County Executive for Health Services, Dr. Abraham Serem, said the County government under the leadership of Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii, EGH, is keen to ensure that residents of Uasin Gishu County get better health services. Dr Serem said the fridges will be dispatched to the facilities across the county in all six sub-counties.

The fridges have the capability of maintaining the temperature during power outages for more than four days and can relay information to officers for close monitoring.

Present during the flagging off were Chief of Staff Mr. Nicholas Chepkony, Chief Officer of Health Preventive & Promotive Services Dr. Paul Wangwe, Ms. Marion Birgen (Education), the County Director of Health, Dr. Evans Kiprotich and representatives from UNICEF.