Youth, women and elders in Dukana, North Horr Constituency, Marsabit County took to the streets on Wednesday to protest the deplorable state of Dukana Health Centre, accusing county and national authorities of neglect.
The demonstrators cited chronic staff shortages, lack of drugs, and a run-down facility that forces patients to travel long distances for basic services.
“We have watched our health facility deteriorate. Our mothers and children deserve better care. We shouldn’t have to travel far for services that should be here,” said Mzee Ali Dema, a community elder.
Umuro Ali, a youth leader, said the protest was about the community’s future.
“This is not just today’s struggle. Dukana residents are united in demanding change. We hope our voices will finally be heard,” he said.
Mama Halima, a resident, said patients wait for hours or days with no help.
“We are tired of waiting. The facility has only one nurse. We urge both the county and national government to prioritize healthcare in our area,” she said.
The poor state of the facility has also sparked online outrage.
Marsabit resident Abdulmaleek Hussein questioned the role of elected leaders.
“Where was the MCA when this facility collapsed? Where was the MP? Oversight and advocacy are their job. Leadership is not about statements after a crisis, but preventing it,” he posted.
Hussein called on the County Executive, MCA and MP to work together to restore dignity to the health centre.
“The disturbing state of Dukana Health Centre should concern every resident of Marsabit County. From the visible deterioration of the buildings to the apparent neglect of medical equipment and the poor condition of the compound, these scenes raise serious questions about the state of healthcare services in the area. More importantly, they call for urgent action rather than political point-scoring.” Hussein stated.
Residents say without urgent intervention, vulnerable mothers, children and the elderly will continue to suffer.
The protest highlights wider gaps in healthcare delivery in remote parts of Marsabit County.
