Marsabit senator calls for state intervention as kala-azar spreads in the region
Mohamed also sought to know whether the county government of Marsabit had requested support from the national government and, if so, whether the request had been met.
Marsabit Senator Mohamed Chute has raised the alarm over the rising cases of kala-azar in Marsabit County, urging the government to act swiftly to contain the outbreak.
Speaking in the Senate, Mohamed called for immediate intervention and a comprehensive response plan from the Standing Committee on Health.
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"This outbreak has sparked serious public health concerns because kala-azar, if left untreated or not treated properly, causes severe organ damage and is fatal in over 95 per cent of cases, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO)," he said.
The senator has called for a detailed report on the outbreak, including when the first case was reported, the total number of infections and the most affected areas.
He also wants the Health Committee's clarification on the measures taken to control the spread, including the deployment of medical personnel, equipment and supplies.
Mohamed also sought to know whether the county government of Marsabit had requested support from the national government and, if so, whether the request had been met.
Senator Mohamed further urged the committee to disclose the budgetary allocation from both the national and county governments to combat the outbreak, specifying whether the funds were included in previously approved budgets or allocated as an emergency response.
He also sought details on any foreign donor support and plans for fumigation in affected areas, emphasising its importance as a control measure.
Hardest-hit areas
Meanwhile, residents of Loglogo village, one of the hardest-hit areas, are appealing for immediate government intervention.
The disease has claimed two lives in the past four months, intensifying fears among the local population.
Laisamis County Referral Hospital CEO Laban Wako confirmed the sharp increase in cases.
"In September last year, we had six cases, another five in October. In November, the number rose to 10, while December saw one case. In January 2025, we recorded 17 cases, and this month, one person has already succumbed," he reported.
Wako noted that children under five were the most affected, with 12 cases recorded in January.
"In the same month, five adults were also diagnosed. The community is suffering, but we are doing all we can to contain the disease. Early diagnosis and effective case management will reduce the prevalence and prevent disabilities and death," he said.
He warned that the elderly, children, and youth were at great risk. Several patients are currently receiving treatment at Laisamis Sub-County Referral Hospital.
Wako added that women and girls have been trained to keep their homes and surroundings clean to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes and sandflies, which spread the disease.
"Community health volunteers have also been trained for early diagnosis and effective case management to curb the spread and minimize fatalities," he added.
The outbreak has heightened concerns about the region's healthcare response capacity, with calls for urgent intervention to curb further spread and save lives.
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