The County Government of West Pokot has received a joint mission from UNICEF and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) to reinforce ongoing initiatives aimed at preventing child wasting and improving nutrition outcomes.
The mission, led by Dr Rebecca Brander from IFPRI and UNICEF Health Specialist Kidake, is collaborating closely with county health staff to monitor, mentor, and support the implementation of the new World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines on wasting prevention.
The partnership emphasises strengthening local staff capacity through training, supervision, and mentorship across 15 pilot sites, including facilities supported by DANIDA, such as Chepkopegh, Ywalateke, Kabichbich, and Keringet.
During a courtesy call to her office, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Ms Claire Parklea, commended UNICEF and IFPRI for their continued partnership and technical support.
She reiterated the county’s commitment to improving child nutrition through community-based interventions, capacity building, and resource mobilisation.
Ms Parklea, alongside Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation, Ms Priscilla Chebet, also led a team to Makutano Health Centre in Mnagei Ward to assess the progress of ongoing infrastructure upgrades.
The improvements are part of the county’s broader health investment plan to enhance access to quality healthcare and expand essential services to local communities.
Once completed, the upgraded Makutano Health Centre is expected to ease congestion at the Kapenguria County Referral Hospital and strengthen service delivery for the surrounding areas.
Through this collaboration with UNICEF, IFPRI, and other development partners, West Pokot County continues to make significant strides in promoting child health and nutrition, ensuring that every child has access to proper care and a healthy start in life.