Kitui County today joined the global community in commemorating World Hypertension Day during an event held at the Kitui Municipal Grounds, where leaders and health stakeholders called for intensified efforts in the fight against high blood pressure and other non-communicable diseases.
The event brought together healthcare partners, county officials, medical professionals, and members of the public in raising awareness about hypertension, commonly referred to as the “silent killer” due to its often undetected symptoms until serious complications arise.
Governor Julius Malombe was represented by the County Executive Committee Member for Health, Ruth Koki, who delivered the Governor’s speech. She was flanked by Chief Officer for Medical Services Benson Musyoka and other senior county health officials.
Speaking during the commemoration, the county leadership emphasized the importance of regular blood pressure screening, healthy lifestyles, and strengthened partnerships in controlling hypertension. This year’s global theme was: “Controlling Hypertension Together, Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly, Defeat the Silent Killer.”The county noted that hypertension remains a major public health challenge globally and locally.
According to the county health department, Kitui recorded 31,535 hypertension patients in the 2022/2023 financial year, 35,721 in 2023/2024, and 36,253 cases in 2024/2025, highlighting a steady rise in the burden of non-communicable diseases.
Health officials warned that uncontrolled hypertension significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart attacks, kidney disease, heart failure, dementia, and other cardiovascular complications. They noted that cardiovascular diseases account for a significant proportion of deaths and hospital admissions in Kenya.
To strengthen coordination and response efforts, the county has established a multisectoral Non-Communicable Diseases Technical Working Group and partnered with organizations including Christian Health Association of Kenya, World Diabetes Foundation, Medtronic Labs, and Centre for Medical Mission Board.
The county government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring every resident has access to quality healthcare services through strengthened primary healthcare systems, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and public health education initiatives.
Quoting Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, the Governor’s message reminded residents that “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.”The county further urged residents to embrace routine screening and healthy living practices, saying collective action remains key in defeating hypertension and reducing preventable deaths linked to non-communicable diseases.
“Together, we can control hypertension and save lives, one blood pressure check at a time. Let’s all get screened,” the statement concluded.
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