Thousands of sickle cell patients in Western Kenya and across the Lake Region Economic Bloc are set to access advanced, life-saving treatment following the commissioning of a modern apheresis machine at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).
The ”quipment, installed at the Victoria Annex Hospital, is expected to significantly improve the management of severe sickle cell complications by enabling specialised procedures that were previously unavailable in the region. It was acquired through a partnership between JOOTRH, Conrad Science and TERUMO Blood and Cell Technologies.
Bringing specialised care closer
Hospital officials say the technology supports Therapeutic Plasma Exchange and Red Blood Cell Exchange, procedures that are critical in managing life-threatening complications such as acute chest syndrome and stroke. The interventions work by removing or replacing sickled red blood cells with healthy donor cells, reducing organ damage and improving survival outcomes for patients with severe disease.
Until now, patients requiring these procedures were often referred to specialised centres in Nairobi or forced to seek treatment abroad. The long journeys, coupled with high medical and travel costs, placed a heavy financial and emotional burden on families, sometimes delaying urgent care.
Clinicians at JOOTRH note that having the technology within the region will shorten referral times, allow earlier intervention, and improve continuity of care for patients who require repeated procedures. The hospital serves as a key referral facility for counties within the Lake Region, including Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori and Busia.
A boost for regional healthcare
JOOTRH Senior Director of Finance and Administration Evans Oloo, speaking on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Joshua Okise, described the commissioning as a major step towards closing long-standing gaps in specialised public healthcare.
“By bringing these advanced services closer to our people, we are reducing suffering, improving clinical outcomes, and reaffirming our commitment to equitable healthcare,” Oloo said.
Health experts say sickle cell disease remains a significant public health challenge in western Kenya, where prevalence rates are higher than the national average. Improved access to specialised interventions is expected to reduce preventable deaths, complications and long-term disability associated with the condition.
With the new apheresis unit now operational, JOOTRH is expected to strengthen its role as a regional referral hub, offering advanced care that was once out of reach for many patients in the Lake Region.
