Versity Pharmacy Alumni give back to the community through free medical camp

Healthcare workers attend to community members during a free medical camp, offering check-ups and essential services under a tented setup.

By Winnie Atieno

The University of Nairobi Faculty of Pharmacy Alumni Association on Friday offered free medical services to the public through a medical camp that brought together pharmacists and other health professionals.

Speaking at Olympic Primary School in Kibra on Friday, Dr. Wairimu Mbogo, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya and chief guest, praised the initiative.

“This is a clear example of how professionals can give back to society by addressing community health needs,” she said.

The camp provided diabetes and hypertension checks, breast and cervical cancer screening, child vaccinations and consultations across different specialties. Patients also received medicines at no cost.

The outreach was supported by the Nairobi City County medical department, the UoN School of Dentistry Hospital, the UoN Eye Hospital, Diabetes Management Institute, Vitali Health Services, Equity Afya and other partners.

Prof. Margaret Oluka, who chaired the team of health workers, said the outreach was also meant to inspire young people.

“We want the community to see pharmacists as more than scientists in laboratories. We are also here as advocates for better health,” she said.

Prof. Anastasia Guantai, Chairman of the Alumni Association, said the camp reflected the group’s mission.

“We are committed to mentoring young pharmacists and giving back to society in practical ways like this,” he said.

The School of Pharmacy, established in 1974, has trained more than 2,000 pharmacists. Its alumni now serve in healthcare, academia and global organizations such as WHO and UNICEF.

Residents welcomed the services, noting that the free check-ups and medicines had eased the burden of accessing healthcare.