The County Government of Uasin Gishu has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local democracy and improving access to quality healthcare through its robust partnership with Sweden’s Region Östergötland. The collaboration, under the Equity in Cancer Care Project, continues to drive transformative progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

During a courtesy engagement between the two partners, the meeting served as a platform to reflect on achievements made in addressing disparities in cancer care and to explore new avenues for collaboration — including health systems strengthening, community outreach, and health workforce development.

Speaking during the meeting, Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor H.E. Evans Kapkea expressed gratitude for the long-standing partnership, noting that the county is now better equipped to detect cancers at early stages.

“Through this collaboration, we are now able to screen and diagnose cancers within our facilities,” he said, emphasizing the impact of shared expertise and capacity building.

Echoing his sentiments, County Executive Committee Member for Health Services, Joseph Lagat, highlighted the strides made in treatment interventions.

“We are not only screening but also treating cancers using LEEP and colposcopy machines, which have significantly enhanced our diagnostic and treatment capabilities,” Lagat noted.

The partnership anchored on equity, transparency, accountability, and public participation reflects both regions’ shared vision of building sustainable health systems and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against cancer.

Representing the Region Östergötland delegation were Andreas Westöö (Majority Leader, Regional Central Assembly), Kirsten Sjöberg (Opposition Representative), and Peter Berrgen (Head of Project), who commended Uasin Gishu County for its dedication and progress in implementing the joint initiatives.

The partnership between Uasin Gishu County and Region Östergötland continues to stand out as a model of how international cooperation can strengthen local governance, enhance healthcare delivery, and promote equity through mutual learning and shared innovation.

The delegation also toured the Uasin Gishu County Assembly, where they were received by Majority Leader Hon. Julius Sang and Minority Leader Hon. Francis Muya, as well as Moi University, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), and the Palliative Care Centre.

Also present was the Chief Officer for Promotive and Preventive Health, Dr. Paul Wangwe.