The Kenya Society for Deaf Children (KSDC) has taken a significant step toward improving ear and hearing care in Kenya with the launch of the ‘DECHI’ Hearing Centre. This specialized clinic aims to provide affordable and comprehensive Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) services, including audiology, to both hearing and deaf individuals. The initiative is a major milestone in addressing hearing loss and supporting the deaf community in Kenya.
What is the DECHI Hearing Clinic?
The DECHI Hearing Centre is a level 2 ENT clinic equipped with medical and audiological professionals. It offers a range of services, including:
- Consultations and treatment for ENT conditions.
- Provision of hearing aids for the hearing impaired.
- Early assessment and diagnosis of hearing loss.
- Referrals to national and county hospitals for advanced care.
The clinic is open to all Kenyans and is designed to be inclusive, with staff members who are hearing impaired and proficient in sign language.
Why is This Important?
Hearing impairment is the fourth leading cause of disability in Kenya, and many cases are identified too late. According to KSDC Chairman Mr. Francis Ng’ang’a, over 300,000 children of school-going age in Kenya have hearing impairments, but only 20,000 are enrolled in schools. Most hearing loss is acquired, meaning it is preventable through early intervention.
The DECHI clinic aims to address these challenges by:
- Providing accessible and affordable hearing care.
- Raising awareness about preventable deafness.
- Supporting early diagnosis and management of hearing loss.
Support from the Government and Partners
The launch of the DECHI clinic was attended by government officials, corporate partners, and representatives from schools for the deaf. Dr. Manasseh, Director of Clinical Services at the State Department for Medical Services, commended KSDC for aligning the clinic with the National Strategic Plan for Ear and Hearing Care (2023-2028).
Key attendees included:
- Imenti North MP Dawood Rahim.
- Nominated MP Dorothy Muthoni.
- Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris.
KSDC’s Vision for the Future
KSDC CEO Rhoda Kabiti emphasized the society’s commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of deaf children. The DECHI clinic is part of a broader strategy to improve health, education, and social welfare for the deaf community.
Mr. Ng’ang’a shared plans to scale the clinic’s services nationwide through mobile clinics and the provision of hearing aids. He also called for increased funding and support to address the underfunding and lack of awareness surrounding deafness in Kenya.
Global Context
A World Health Organization (WHO) report highlights that over 1.5 billion people worldwide experience some form of hearing loss. This underscores the importance of initiatives like the DECHI clinic in addressing a global health issue.
Conclusion
The launch of the DECHI Hearing Centre marks a significant step forward in improving ear and hearing care in Kenya. By providing affordable services, raising awareness, and fostering inclusivity, the clinic promises to make a lasting impact on the lives of deaf and hearing-impaired individuals. With the support of the government, partners, and the community, KSDC is paving the way for a brighter future for the deaf community in Kenya.
Let us all join hands to support this noble cause and ensure that no child is left behind due to hearing loss.
By Citizen Reporter
