Free medical camp treats thousands in Narok, exposes rural care gaps

At least 4,000 people have received free treatment in Narok County through a new initiative seeking to bridge healthcare gaps in remote communities.

 The outreach, part of Lifecare International’s Better Together Mara Medical Camp, ran on Monday, June 2 and Tuesday, June 3 at Enkitoria Oloolaimutia Medical Centre in Narok West.

 Organisers said the turnout reflected the overwhelming need for accessible services in rural Kenya, where facilities remain stretched and understaffed.

 “People are coming in with tumours they’ve had for years, with advanced dental infections, vision loss and untreated diabetes,” said Dr John Njenga, clinical lead at the camp.

 “These are not new illnesses. They are signs of a broken health system,” he added.

 The medical camp brought together doctors, surgeons and health workers from Kenya and beyond, offering general consultations, dental and optical procedures, gynaecological care, tumour removals, cleft lip reconstruction and treatment for chronic diseases such as hypertension.

 Organisers said more than 500 patients underwent eye surgeries, with at least 73 cataract extractions and 64 tumour removals performed over the two days.

 A special ward for women and children provided breast cancer screenings, paediatric check-ups and counselling.

 The initiative also leaned on digital tools, with some patients using HealthX Africa’s virtual platform to access specialists in real time. Volunteers also helped recycle medical waste into eco-friendly building materials.

 Lifecare International said the outreach has now reached over 16,500 people across six editions.

 Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu presided over the camp and praised the collaboration behind it.

 “Lifecare International continues to be a pillar of hope for the Maasai community,” said Ntutu. Adding, “Their provision of free, high-quality healthcare services combined with access to clean water and sustainable development has transformed lives across the Mara.”

The event was supported by medical and insurance partners, including Bupa Foundation, Allianz Partners, Cigna, Emica, HealthX Africa, Aga Khan Hospital and King’s College Hospital London Dubai.

 “We are truly honoured to be part of Lifecare International’s Mara Medical Camp again this year,” said Ida Luka, chief officer, health and board of management at Allianz Partners.

 “The dedication and hard work shown is truly inspiring, and we are proud to offer our support. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of this community,” she added.