Lodwar – 3rd February 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

Turkana County First Lady Lilian Ekamais has kicked off the schools’ sensitization drive on HPV vaccination campaign at Kanamkemer Primary School, Lodwar.

The exercise, targets young girls of between age 9–14 years to turn up in large numbers for the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady urged parents to ensure their girls were vaccinated against HPV and also educate them on menstrual hygiene.

“Every parent should ensure their girls have sanitary towels to maintain menstrual hygiene,” She said.

She also advised the young girls to refrain from pre-marital sex as it is the primary cause of spread of infections such as HPV which cause cervical cancer.

County Executive for Health and Sanitation Dr Joseph Epem mentioned that early vaccination uptake campaigns and intensified screenings is critical in reducing cervical cancer burden.

“Through preventing cervical cancer by use of HPV vaccine, we are able to secure healthy lives for our future generations,” he said.

Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Janerose Tioko reiterated the need for every parent to secure health care financing through registration of Social Health Authority.

Also, present were County Executive for Land, Urban and Physical Planning Faith Akuam, County Attorney Ruth Emanikor, County Health Management and Sub-county Health Management Teams.