Health experts and patient advocates have hailed the launch of red blood cell exchange therapy at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) as a breakthrough in the fight against sickle cell disease in western Kenya.

The milestone procedure, performed in partnership with The Nairobi West Hospital, was enabled by a new state-of-the-art apheresis machine and specialist support.

“This is a major step in decentralising highly specialised treatment,” said Dr. Kibet Shikuku, Medical Director at The Nairobi West Hospital. “Our priority is to transfer expertise so patients in Kisumu and across the lake region can access life-saving interventions closer to home.”

Acting JOOTRH CEO Joshua Clinton said the programme will ease the burden of families long forced to travel to Nairobi for care.

“With the support of The Nairobi West Hospital, we can now provide world-class therapy right here in Kisumu,” he said.

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni praised the collaboration as “exactly the model of partnership we need to strengthen universal health coverage,” noting that it brings lifesaving therapy to the region most affected by sickle cell disease.

The Social Health Authority confirmed that qualifying patients will receive subsidised treatment and urged Kenyans to step up blood donations to sustain the programme.

Among the first beneficiaries was Michelle Omulo, 32, a patient advocate who has battled sickle cell since childhood.

“I feel like the apheresis machine is going to really reduce the number of crises that we are always having,” she said. “For the first time, I feel hopeful that I can live a more stable and productive life.”