The development marks a major turning point in specialised care, as JOOTRH becomes the first public hospital in Kenya to own the advanced technology, ensuring uninterrupted and sustainable access to treatment for patients who previously faced long waiting periods.

The Spectra Optia Apheresis Machine performs red cell exchange, a specialised procedure that removes damaged red blood cells and replaces them with healthy ones.

This intervention plays a critical role in preventing stroke, reducing organ damage, and minimising recurrent painful crises among people living with sickle cell disease.

In addition to sickle cell management, the machine supports more than ten therapeutic procedures, including therapeutic plasma exchange, cell depletion, and stem cell collection, expanding care for patients with neurological, kidney, autoimmune, and other haematological conditions.

The placement of the machine at JOOTRH was made possible through a partnership with Konrad Science and Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies. The partnership guarantees sustainability through five years of technical support, routine maintenance, software upgrades, and continuous capacity building for JOOTRH staff, ensuring optimal performance of the technology.

The milestone builds on earlier efforts by JOOTRH to respond to the high burden of sickle cell disease in the region. Through a partnership with The Nairobi West Hospital, JOOTRH was able to offer apheresis services by having the machine flown in when required. While the arrangement provided a promising start and enabled the first six sickle cell patients to benefit from the life-saving procedure, access remained limited by logistics and availability.

With the machine now permanently installed at the Victoria Annex, those barriers have been eliminated. Patients no longer have to wait for the equipment to be transported, allowing timely, consistent, and reliable access to care.

Speaking during the launch, Kevin Otieno, Sales Representative at Konrad Science, reaffirmed the partners’ commitment to long-term service delivery, noting that JOOTRH will receive full technical support and software upgrades for five years at no cost, ensuring the machine remains functional, efficient, and responsive to patient needs.

JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise said the success of the service hinges on trained staff, responsible management, and compassionate care. He praised the team that underwent intensive training, noting the hospital can now run the service independently. “This is a life-changer for our patients. It offers hope to people living with sickle cell disease, and we must use it carefully, sustainably, and always with the patient at heart,” he said.