By Lorraine Anyango

The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching & Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today with Vayu Global Health, an organization dedicated to improving newborn and infant health. This partnership aims to significantly boost newborn survival rates at the Kisumu-based hospital.

The core focus of the MoU is a six-month demonstration program that will see Vayu Global Health provide JOOTRH with bCPAP (bubble continuous positive airway pressure) and Oxygen Blender Systems. These devices are crucial in supporting the breathing of premature and critically ill newborns.

Why is this MoU important?

Neonatal mortality, or death within the first 28 days of life, remains a significant challenge in Kenya and many other developing countries. Respiratory illnesses are a leading cause of newborn deaths. The Vayu bCPAP and Oxygen Blender Systems can significantly improve the chances of survival for these fragile infants.

What this means for JOOTRH and its patients

JOOTRH staff will receive comprehensive training on using the Vayu equipment. This will not only enhance their ability to care for newborns in immediate need but will also establish a foundation for future knowledge sharing and potential scale-up of the program across Kenya.

Critically, the MoU emphasizes sustainability. JOOTRH will be working towards developing a plan to secure the long-term availability of these vital devices.

“This partnership with Vayu Global Health is a significant step forward for JOOTRH,” said Dr Richard Lesiyampe, CEO of JOOTRH. “By providing access to these advanced respiratory support systems, we will be better equipped to save the lives of countless newborns.”

Mrs  Monica Oguttu the founding Executive Director of Kisumu Medical and Education Trust  (KMET) who is a board member of  Vayu Global Health, added, “We are thrilled to be working with JOOTRH on this important initiative. We believe that this collaboration has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of newborns across Kenya.”

This MoU is a promising development for JOOTRH and its patients. With access to advanced respiratory support technology and enhanced expertise, the hospital is poised to significantly improve newborn survival rates in Kisumu and beyond.