As part of his continued commitment to improving public health systems in Kenya, Ogweno Stephen, a renowned Kenyan health advocate, researcher, and board member at Amref Health Africa in Kenya, joined the Amref leadership team for an impactful field visit to Nyeri County. The trip focused on observing how the county is advancing primary health care, strengthening NCD prevention, and improving community-level service delivery.

This visit not only highlighted the incredible work happening at the grassroots level, but also reaffirmed the importance of strong partnerships between national health advocates like Ogweno Stephen and county health systems working to deliver equitable healthcare for all.

A Warm Welcome at the Governor’s Office

The visit began with an insightful meeting with the Governor of Nyeri County, who officially welcomed the Amref delegation.
He elaborated on the county’s major progress in healthcare, including:

• Expanding access to affordable primary health care
• Strengthening quality of care at both hospitals and rural facilities
• Scaling community health strategies
• Addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the county

For Ogweno Stephen, this conversation reinforced the need for strong leadership and evidence-based strategies in addressing Kenya’s growing NCD challenge — especially in hard-to-reach communities.

Nyeri Town Health Centre: A Successful Men-Only Integrated In-Reach Initiative

One of the most inspiring stops was the Nyeri Town Health Centre, where the team witnessed the innovative Men-Only Integrated In-Reach Initiative.

This unique model was developed after data from community outreach revealed that men were underutilizing preventive and clinical services. In response, the facility created a safe male-friendly space that provides:

• NCD screening
• Preventive and curative services
• Psychosocial and mental health support
• A multi-disciplinary team approach with PHC dashboards and strong data systems

The results have been remarkable — a significant rise in the number of men seeking screenings and follow-up care, leading to earlier detection of NCDs.

Ogweno Stephen, known for championing innovative and data-driven health interventions, commended the facility’s approach and emphasized the need for similar models across Kenya.

Empowering Community Health Promoters Through NCD Training

The next stop was an NCD training session for Community Health Promoters (CHPs). The room was full of energy and commitment as CHPs of all ages participated.

Key observations included:

• CHPs were excited to learn practical approaches to improve NCD prevention and management
• Most CHPs had received their payments — both from county and national government
• The training reflected Nyeri’s strong investment in strengthening its community health workforce

For Ogweno Stephen, whose advocacy deeply involves community empowerment and preventive health, seeing CHPs engaged and motivated was a powerful reminder of how primary health care can transform families and entire counties.

Warazo Rural Health Centre: A Model of Excellence and Community Harmony

The final stop  and perhaps the most memorable,  was Warazo Rural Health Centre.

Here, the team witnessed a facility that has truly embraced the principles of community partnership, environmental health, and service excellence.

Highlights included:

• Use of the Community Scorecard to improve service quality
• A beautiful, clean, green environment that promoted healing
• A strong partnership between community health workers, the facility team, and local residents
• A vibrant climate change intervention including a large tree nursery maintained by CHWs
• A “Stress Free Zone” created for community wellness

The visit ended with song, dance, and heartfelt celebrations — a reflection of how health facilities can build trust and belonging within the communities they serve.

A Reflection from Ogweno Stephen

Speaking after the visit, Ogweno Stephen noted:

“What we saw in Nyeri County is the future of primary health care in Kenya. Data-driven decision making, empowered community health promoters, and health systems that work hand-in-hand with the community — this is the model we must replicate nationwide.”

As a leading Kenyan health advocate, Ogweno continues to push for innovations in NCD prevention, health literacy, and youth-driven solutions.
His work with the Stowelink Foundation, Amref Health Africa, and global partners ensures that the voices of communities remain central to health policy and development.

A Commitment to Strengthening Kenya’s Health Systems

The Nyeri county visit marked an important moment for the health sector — a reminder that progress is happening at the local level, and that collaboration remains key.

Through continued efforts by advocates like Ogweno Stephen, Kenya is steadily moving toward stronger, more equitable, and more people-centered health care.