Reaching Balambala: A Lifesaving Medical & Surgical Camp

DEMOGRAPHICS

Balambala Sub-County, one of the administrative units of Garissa County, has an estimated population of just over 32,000 people spread across a vast semi-arid landscape of 3,684 km², giving it a low population density of about 8.8 persons per square kilometre. The community is predominantly Somali, with Somali being the main language spoken, while Swahili and English are used in education and official engagements. Islam is the dominant religion, and cultural values and practices are deeply rooted in the everyday lives of residents.

Health Infrastructure & Access

Health access remains a major challenge in Balambala and Garissa County at large. The average distance to the nearest health facility is estimated at 25–35 km, compounded by a shortage of skilled health professionals. Current staffing levels are significantly below World Health Organization recommendations, with a doctor-to-population ratio of approximately 1:41,000 and a nurse-to-population ratio of about 1:2,500. The most common health conditions affecting the population include upper respiratory tract infections, diarrhoeal diseases, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and skin diseases.

MEDICAL & SURGICAL CAMP AUGUST 2025

The Balambala Medical Camp was conducted over a period of three days, bringing together healthcare professionals, volunteers, and partner organizations in a concerted effort to address the health needs of the community. The turnout was remarkable, reflecting both the demand for healthcare services in the region and the trust placed in the organizing team by the residents.

Medical Camp Summary Report

The medical outreach camp recorded an impressive turnout, with a total of 2,611 patients benefiting from a wide range of health services over three days. On Day 1, 1,031 patients were attended to, followed by 1,020 patients on Day 2, and 560 patients on the final day.

A comprehensive package of services was provided, including outpatient consultations, specialized clinics, surgical interventions, laboratory and pharmacy support, and health education sessions—all aimed at improving access to quality healthcare for the local community.

Surgical Program Highlights

One of the standout components of the camp was the surgical program, which successfully addressed a variety of general and specialized cases. On Day 2 alone, a total of 37 surgeries were successfully performed, with an additional 24 surgeries scheduled for the final day underscoring the high demand for surgical care in the region.

In a proactive step to tackle the burden of avoidable blindness, 90 patients diagnosed with cataracts were booked for surgical intervention. These life-changing eye surgeries are scheduled to take place at Balambala Sub-County Hospital, ensuring continued support and improved vision outcomes for the affected individuals.

Blood Donation Drive

The camp also featured a successful blood donation drive, resulting in the collection of 100 pints of blood. This vital contribution strengthens the regional blood bank and significantly enhances emergency preparedness for Garissa County and its surrounding areas.

Notably, all surgical procedures and interventions were fully sponsored by SHA, whose generous contribution ensured that patients received high quality care at no cost. This support not only alleviated the immediate financial barriers to treatment but also reaffirmed the critical role of partnerships in expanding access to essential healthcare services.

Overall, the medical camp demonstrated the impact of collaborative efforts in bridging gaps in healthcare delivery for underserved communities. Beyond addressing immediate medical needs, it provided hope, restored health, and strengthened the bond between the healthcare system and the people of Balambala.

Last but not least, behind every consultation, surgery, and act of care was a committed team of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who gave their time and skills selflessly to serve the people of Balambala.

Doctors

Dr Bashir Dekow
Dr. Ruqiya Adan
Dr. Somane Hassan
Dr. Elyas Bishar
Dr. Ismail Ahmed
Dr. Shukri
Dr. Hussein Dubow
Dr. Abdiwali Bashir
Dr. Amina Deeq
Dr. Hillow
Dr. Aweis
Dr. Ahmed Kasai
Dr. Salat
Dr. Salah Ahmed
Dr. Maryam
Dr. Iqra
Dr. Abdirizack Adow
Dr. Mohamednoor Suraw
Dr. Musa
Dr. Salim
Dr. Mohamednoor Dagane
Dr. Yussuf
Dr. Abdiwahab Noor
Abdiaziz ENT CO
Ahmed Dagane CO
Dr. Warfa Osman
Dr. Nasri Omar
Garissa KMTC & NEP College Staff

ACKNOWLEGMENTS & CONCLUSIONS

We extend our deepest gratitude to our stakeholders;

• • Ministry of Health

• • County Government of Garissa

• • Kenya Blood Transfusion and Transplant Service (KBTTS)

• • Social Health Authority (SHA)

• • Kenya Red Cross

• • CHEPS

for their leadership, guidance, and unwavering support in making the Balambala Medical Camp a success.

We also recognize the dedication of the Medical Aid Alliance team, whose tireless efforts in planning, coordination, and service delivery were central to the camp’s impact.

Our sincere appreciation goes to our partners;

Medina Chemicals Limited (on full board)

Guardian Hospital Meru

Arachis Pharma

Dawa Life Sciences

Hewatele

Shalina Pharma

Winston International

for their generous contributions and collaboration, which ensured the availability of essential medical supplies and resources. Finally, we acknowledge the invaluable support of

• • Balambala Hospital

• • Administration of Balambala Primary School

• • KMTC Garissa

• • NEP College Of Health Sciences

• • National Youth Service

whose cooperation and involvement greatly facilitated the smooth running of the camp.