Over three years, Sense International Kenya will work with hospitals, local governments and communities in two rural Counties in Kenya (Kwale and Garissa) to: Train 460 health workers so they can test 55,000 children for sight and hearing impairments. Provide support to 124 children identified with deafblindness (both a sight and hearing impairment) Work with partners to support over 500 children with single sensory impairments (i.e children with either hearing or sight impairments).
Kenya is in the bottom 50 countries globally according to the Human Development Index. Furthermore, Garissa and Kwale are ranked among the poorest Counties in Kenya, with high levels of poverty, disability and marginalisation. There are no test units or support services for children with sight and hearing impairments in Garissa and Kwale. With high prevalence of disability and lack of health services, children with sight and hearing impairments are not identified and not receiving support.
Over the next 3 years, Sense International Kenya will: Construct four test units and strengthen the capacity of 36 health facilities. Test 55,000 children for sight and hearing impairments. Provide personalised support to an estimated 124 children identified with deafblindness. Support over 500 children with single sensory impairments. Train 160 health workers and 300 Community Health Volunteers Use video technology to train 248 parents on the best methods to support their child.
Our goal is always to work in partnership with governments, schools and health centres so each country can carry on the work independently (and sustainably) once a project is complete. This project is sustainable as we will: Provide training to 460 health workers, who will gain new and specialised skills. Set up 4 test units and strengthen 36 local health facilities with testing equipment Work with the County Governments through a project steering committee.
