Kenya launches Sh120 million cochlear implant programme to help deaf children hear
The Sh120 million programme at KNH will fund life-changing ear implants for children with severe hearing loss, making advanced treatment accessible under UHC.
Kenya has launched a Sh120 million cochlear implant programme at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), offering new hope to children with severe hearing loss. The initiative, developed in partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco, seeks to expand access to specialised hearing treatment and make the life-changing technology more affordable for families.
The launch marks a major milestone in Kenya’s drive to strengthen inclusive healthcare and paediatric hearing services. During a week-long medical mission ahead of the official launch, 25 children received cochlear implants, with plans to reach 50 beneficiaries in total. The surgeries were performed through collaboration between Moroccan surgeons and Kenyan ENT specialists at KNH.
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Covered under SHA
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the programme aligns with the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals.
He announced that cochlear implant surgeries are now covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) benefit package, costing Sh358,400 per procedure, protecting families from crippling medical expenses.
The implants have also been listed in the Kenya Essential Medical Supplies List (2023) for Level 5 and 6 hospitals, with ongoing efforts to distribute them through the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
Hearing aids
Meanwhile, the AT Scale Project has provided hearing aids and diagnostic equipment to more than 25 health facilities across the country, helping restore hearing and improve quality of life.
The programme was launched in the presence of First Lady Rachel Ruto and Princess Lalla Asmaa of Morocco, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in supporting children with disabilities.
Mrs Ruto thanked Morocco for its partnership, saying, “This partnership is a gift of life and sound, allowing children to hear laughter and the voices of their loved ones for the very first time.”
During the ceremony, Kenya and Morocco signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen collaboration between the Kenya Voice of Children Foundation and the Princess Lalla Asmaa Foundation.
Dignitaries present included KNH CEO Richard Lesiyampe, Board Chair Abbas Gullet, Morocco’s Ambassador Abderrazzak Laassel, Gender CS Cheptumo Wendot, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga, and Nairobi Deputy Governor James Muchiri.
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