Residents of Kisumu County benefited from a free medical camp organized by Jofuambo Welfare Group, a welfare organization made up of journalists from the Lake Basin region.

Speaking during the event, Jofuambo Treasurer Winnie Miseda said the group was formed in 2021 to improve the welfare of journalists and support communities through social projects.

She pointed out that the free medical camp was the group’s first major community project.

Miseda noted that many people struggle to access healthcare due to financial challenges. She said the group decided to work together with partners to help those who cannot afford medical services.

“We cover many stories as journalists and have seen the challenges people face in accessing healthcare. We thought it was important to give back to society,” she said.

She thanked partners including the Media Council of Kenya and the Kisumu County Government for supporting the initiative.

According to Miseda, the organizers had targeted to serve 700 people, but the turnout exceeded expectations, forcing them to print more registration forms.

Jofuambo Organising Secretary Victor Otieno Juma said the group wanted to move beyond reporting health issues and directly support communities through practical action.

“This is just the beginning. We have learned a lot from this exercise and identified areas that need improvement as we plan future activities,” he said.

Collaboration

Kisumu County Director of Public Health and Sanitation Fredrick Oluoch praised the journalists for organizing the medical camp. He said nearly 1,000 residents turned up to receive free treatment and medical advice.

“We are grateful to Jofuambo Welfare Group for this initiative. We look forward to more partnerships that will improve the health of our people,” said Oluoch.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the free services. Lucas Omondi Owuor, who travelled from Siaya County, said the camp helped him receive treatment that he could not otherwise afford.

“My income is very low and buying medicine has been difficult. Today I received treatment and assistance, and I am very thankful,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Mama Teresa, said she received treatment and medication during the camp. She thanked the organizers for helping people who often struggle to access healthcare because of lack of money.

The medical camp attracted hundreds of residents seeking treatment, medication, and health consultations, highlighting the need for more community health outreach programmes in the region.