Nairobi: A new specialized epilepsy clinic has been opened at the AIC Child Care Centre in Kajiado County, offering renewed hope to people living with the condition through improved access to treatment, medical support, and awareness services. The facility, established through a partnership between the Kenya Association for the Welfare of People with Epilepsy (KAWE), the County Government of Kajiado, and the United States-based BAND Foundation, aims to bridge the treatment gap and address stigma associated with the neurological disorder.
According to Kenya News Agency, BAND Foundation Trustee Ms. Gardner Lapham emphasized that increased public awareness would encourage more people living with epilepsy to seek medical attention. She noted that misconceptions about the condition have prevented many from obtaining necessary care. Ms. Lapham explained that understanding epilepsy as a treatable medical condition would lead to more individuals actively seeking care, as simple medication can transform and save lives affordably.
During the launch, community members engaged in a ‘Stigma Bench’ session, promoting understanding of epilepsy as a brain disorder requiring medical care rather than a curse or contagious illness. KAWE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Patrick Ng’echu described the clinic’s opening as a significant achievement in the organization’s 40-year history of creating awareness and providing care for epilepsy patients. He highlighted that the facility’s location at the AIC Child Care Centre would enable holistic care for patients, as the center already supports children with other neurological conditions.
Ng’echu stated that KAWE supports 25,000 active patients in Nairobi through its primary care model, with Kajiado becoming the 24th region to benefit from its decentralized outreach program. He emphasized the economic benefits of investing in epilepsy management, as patients receiving proper care can return to school, work, and other productive activities, resulting in a significant return on investment.
KAWE Clinical Officer Nicholas Otieno highlighted the clinic’s role as a permanent referral point for patients lacking access to specialized services. He pointed out the high prevalence of epilepsy in Kenya, with only 20 percent of patients receiving proper medical management. He addressed how myths and lack of awareness lead many patients to seek traditional healers, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.
Otieno discussed the impact of stigma, particularly on women, who often face discrimination and isolation due to misconceptions about epilepsy. He clarified that epilepsy is not strictly hereditary, and beliefs about women with epilepsy being unable to have healthy children are unfounded. Otieno urged health stakeholders, community leaders, and families to support the program and ensure the availability of epilepsy medication.
Geoffrey Hinga, a person living with epilepsy, shared his experience of facing challenges and stigma since developing the condition at age 12. As a trained beautician, Hinga noted the difficulties in securing employment opportunities due to employers’ fears of seizures occurring at the workplace. He expressed optimism about the new clinic in Kajiado, which will provide essential support and encourage more patients to seek medical attention.
