Coast

Lamu's Mangai Dispensary reopened 10 years after Al-Shabaab attack

View of the Mangai Dispensary in Lamu County, which was reopened on June 12, 2024, a decade after a terror attack. (Photos: Farhiya Hussein/EV)

By Farhiya Hussein | Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Patients travelled at least 50 kilometres on rough terrain to reach the nearest health facilities in Kiangwe and even further to King Fahd Hospital.

Mangai Dispensary in Lamu County has been reopened, a decade after it was closed due to an attack by Al-Shabaab militants, much to the relief of residents who had been enduring long, difficult journeys for medicare.

Patients travelled at least 50 kilometres on rough terrain to reach the nearest health facilities in Kiangwe and even further to King Fahd Hospital. Locals said this was especially challenging for pregnant women and those in emergencies.

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Nyabwana Mzee, a mother of three, expressed her relief, saying, "For years, we had to risk our lives on terrible roads just to get basic health services. The journey was not only long and exhausting but also dangerous, especially during the rainy season when the roads became nearly impassable."

She added, "Many of us worried constantly about what would happen in an emergency, knowing that the nearest clinic was miles away and the roads could delay crucial medical care. With the reopening of the Mangai Dispensary, we can finally get help closer home. It means quicker access to medical assistance for our children and elders, and it brings a great sense of security and peace of mind."

A water tank is pictured at the Mangai Dispensary in Lamu County on June 12, 2024, following its reopening a decade after a terror attack. (Photos: Farhiya Hussein/EV)

Fatuma Ali, an expectant mother, said, "I no longer have to worry about travelling far for prenatal check-ups. This dispensary will save lives."

Tuesday's reopening ceremony was overseen by Health executive Mbarak Bahjaj, who reiterated the importance of accessible healthcare for all.

"We are committed to reducing maternal and childhood mortality rates by ensuring that essential health services are within reach for every resident," Dr. Bahjaj said.

As part of the initiative under the Afya Mashinani project, Governor Issa Timamy has renovated, equipped, and staffed the facility located deep in the Boni enclave.

It is anticipated to offer outpatient services, maternity care, vaccinations, and other primary care.

“The development is crucial because Basuba ward accounts for over 60 per cent of maternal and childhood mortality and has high morbidity rates due to inaccessible services caused by insecurity and poor infrastructure. The ward's immunisation coverage is below 50 per cent, leaving children vulnerable to preventable diseases such as TB, measles, pneumonia, diarrheal diseases, and polio,” he explained.

Supplies are pictured at the Mangai Dispensary in Lamu County on June 12, 2024, following its reopening, a decade after a terror attack. (Photos: Farhiya Hussein/EV)

UNICEF has also supported the facility by providing a solar-powered vaccine refrigerator, ensuring their ready availability and proper storage, while the Kenya Defence Forces and Kenya Navy have provided logistical support and security for the facility's staff.

John Karanja, a father of two, praised the efforts, saying "This is a significant improvement for our community. Our children can now get vaccinated on time."

Mary Nduta, another resident, highlighted the broader impact, stating, "Having a functional dispensary means we can address health issues early, reducing complications and saving money on travel expenses."