About the Project
The project consisted of purchasing an electroencephalogram machine (EEG) for an epilepsy clinic.
Location
Mwihoko, Kiambu County, Kenya
Quick Project Stats
| Funding Date | July 2023 |
| Luena Investment | $3,000 |
| CBO Partner | Kiserem Epilepsy Foundation |
| Village | Mwihoko |
| Country | Kenya |
| # of Children Impacted | 500 |
| Community Contribution | Laptop for EEG machine |
Poverty and Limited Healthcare Facilities Prevent Effective Epilepsy Care
Mwihoko has a population of approximately 150,000 as of 2024. Residents face significant economic challenges, with many earning below $2 per day. The community struggles with inadequate access to basic services like hospitals. In Kenya, more than one million people are suffering from epilepsy, and only 20% can afford anti-epilepsy medicines; the rest cannot afford due to stigma and poverty. Many Kenyans buy medication over the counter without receiving a proper diagnosis through electroencephalogram testing (EEG). In fact, the local public hospitals are not equipped with such machines, a problem that leaves a lot of people undiagnosed and unable to manage their epilepsy through proper treatment.
Access to EEG Testing Saves Lives and Improves Care
The donation from Luena Foundation was used to purchase an EEG machine for the purpose of diagnosing and managing epilepsy for affected community members. An EEG machine enables accurate and early detection of various neurological disorders, including epilepsy, which is often underdiagnosed in resource-limited settings. Early diagnosis facilitates timely and appropriate treatment with the correct medication, which reduces accidents and deaths.
This project directly changed the lives of so many; a lot of people could not afford to get proper treatment due to the unavailability of such services in our community. Through partnering with doctors, Kiserem Epilepsy Foundation has set up clinics at the organization’s center, whereby members can come to see the doctor and receive the test.
Meet our Partner Community-Based Organization
The Kiserem Epilepsy Foundation works with schools, churches, and families to aid and empower children with epilepsy in Kenya. We seek to increase their opportunities and foster their success for the future.
To learn more about our partner organization, click here.
