Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has inaugurated the use of drones to transport blood samples and select emergency medical supplies to hospitals in the county.
This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in Kenya, is part of a Ksh.400 million medical support partnership with Israeli firm ElsMed Healthcare Solutions.
The launch, held at Kisor Health Center in Eldoret, introduces drones that will primarily collect medical samples from rural health facilities and deliver them to a specialized laboratory at Huruma Sub-County Hospital.
Governor Bii described the initiative as a historic step toward enhancing healthcare delivery in the region.
The partnership with ElsMed will span 10 years, covering diagnostic laboratory solutions, medical information systems, infrastructure services, diabetes and hypertension treatment centers, and the drone-based support system.
The deal follows a visit by Israeli Ambassador Michael Lotem two years ago, during which the ambassador committed to supporting healthcare projects in Uasin Gishu.
ElsMed CEO Yaron Farachi highlighted the efficiency of drone technology, noting its potential to save time and reduce costs associated with road transportation of medical supplies. He also pointed out that this is the first implementation of such technology for medical use in Africa.
Governor Bii emphasized the importance of the initiative in improving access to quality healthcare for Uasin Gishu residents. He and Health Executive Abraham Serem urged residents to register with the SHA program for free access to healthcare services in public hospitals.
The agreement with ElsMed includes maintenance and replacement of medical equipment, along with the provision of consumables and reagents at affordable rates, ensuring long-term sustainability of the projects.
Governor Bii expressed gratitude for the partnership, calling it a breakthrough in the county’s efforts to provide high-quality medical services.
