KNH launches the Kenya-Japan endoscopy onsite training programme

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), in partnership with the Embassy of Japan, has officially launched an innovative on-site training program dedicated to advancing expertise in gastrointestinal care through endoscopy. This initiative represents a significant milestone in human resource development for managing gastrointestinal diseases in Kenya.

The newly introduced program marks the commencement of a three-day intensive hands-on training series, designed to boost skills and knowledge in various endoscopy specialties. This training is expected to make a substantial impact on the quality of gastrointestinal care in Kenya.

In a recent interview at KNH’s Nairobi facility, Dr. Linda Gathara, Head of the Endoscopy Unit at KNH, provided insights into the program’s structure and goals. According to Dr. Gathara, the training program spans three years, with Japanese experts periodically visiting Kenya to conduct sessions at the hospital.

“This is a three-year initiative, with on-site training occurring here in Kenya. The initial three-day training sessions will be followed by a reciprocal visit in November, where a team from KNH will travel to Japan for a month-long training,” Dr. Gathara explained.

She further elaborated that the training is organized biannually, alternating between on-site sessions at Kenyatta National Hospital and subsequent training trips to Japan. This year’s cohort consists of 13 trainees, including six from KNH and seven from various counties across Kenya.

Dr. Gathara emphasized the program’s importance, noting that it provides invaluable skills to both KNH staff and doctors from other regions. These enhanced skills will enable practitioners to deliver improved patient care. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Tomohiko Moriyama, Director of TEMDEC at Kyushu University, who underscored that the program aims to expand healthcare coverage throughout Kenya.

Endoscopy, as Dr. Gathara explained, involves examining the gastrointestinal (GI) system. This includes procedures for evaluating the upper GI tract—encompassing the stomach, esophagus, and the initial segment of the small intestine—as well as the lower GI tract, which includes the large intestine.

The training will cover advanced endoscopic procedures, such as Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which are crucial for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Looking ahead, Dr. Gathara expressed optimism for future collaborations and extended gratitude to the Embassy of Japan for their support in launching the program. She also acknowledged the dedication of KNH staff participating in this transformative initiative.

This partnership between KNH and Japan represents a significant step forward in enhancing endoscopic capabilities in Kenya, with the potential to improve gastrointestinal health outcomes nationwide