Nakuru: Nakuru County Government is adopting the use of solar-powered vaccine storage refrigerators to strengthen vaccine storage and delivery, particularly in remote areas with limited or no electricity, in a bid to reduce vaccine wastage. The initiative will significantly expand storage capacity at public health facilities in hard-to-reach and off-grid areas.
According to Kenya News Agency, a Solar Drive Vaccine Fridge has already been installed at Ng'ondu Dispensary in Rongai Sub-County by the devolved unit's Biomedical engineers in an exercise coordinated by County Biomedical Engineering Officer Mr. Kibet Keitany, with support from the Ministry of Health and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). Mr. Keitany described the installation of the new cold chain equipment as a milestone that will significantly improve access to life-saving immunization services for residents of Ng'ondu and surrounding communities. He emphasized that the innovation ensures vaccines are safely stored at optimal temperatures without relying on electricity or fuel-powered generators.
"This equipment will provide continuous cold storage powered by solar energy, which we have in abundance. It will ensure vaccine quality as the solar-powered unit guarantees uninterrupted vaccine preservation, even in remote or off-grid areas, ensuring no child misses a vital immunization due to power outages," he stated.
The Biomedical Engineering Officer indicated that the adoption of solar-powered vaccine storage refrigerators aligns with Governor Susan Kihika's commitment to strengthening primary healthcare systems and expanding equitable access to essential health services across all 11 Sub-Counties. To maintain vaccine potency and availability, Mr. Keitany underscored the need for a robust cold chain system that reliably delivers vaccines on time and in optimal condition to every person. He emphasized the often-overlooked importance of cold chain systems in public health.
"A reliable cold chain is one of the most vital aspects of public health. As we celebrate vaccines, we must always remain alive to the fact that without a functional cold chain they lose their potency and the promise to save lives," said the official. He added, "With this installation, Ng'ondu Dispensary is now better equipped to serve its community, bringing essential health services closer to families and reducing the need for long-distance travel in search of vaccination services."
A solar-powered refrigerator operates on electricity generated from the sun, while the cooler operates with a compressor powered directly from sunlight.