Loima – November 21, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

As the ACCEPT project prepares for closure, the transformative impact of Integrated Community Case Management (iCCM) initiative is being reported in Loima and Turkana North.

This was reported during a joint final supervision exercise by the county government in collaboration with Turkana Christian Development Mission (TCDM) teams, as the three-year initiative dubbed ACCEPT enters its final exit phase.

The iCCM initiative, is one of the three components under the ACCEPT— Accelerating access and availability of enhanced lifesaving, Prevention and Treatment services (ACCEPT) project. It aimed to close critical gaps in managing childhood illnesses such as malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhea. The other two include CHUSLA, a group savings module and family MUAC, where mothers take the center stage in preventing child malnutrition.

Prior to this additional intervention, caregivers in these regions walked long distances for treatment, leading to delays and preventable complications.

Through the project, 212 CHPs and 20 CHAs were equipped to diagnose, treat, and refer childhood illnesses at the household level.

“CHPs treat our children immediately right here at home—no more long walks or waiting unless our children are in serious danger,” says Jecinta Akiru, a mother from Turkana North.

CHPs report increased trust and early care-seeking.

“Diarrhea was very common, and the children were mostly defaulting and hardly visiting the hospitals or attending outreaches,” said Lokorikeju Echakan, a CHP from Lowamala village in Kangalita.

“Caregivers now come early. They know help is right here,” says Peter, a CHP from Loima.

County officials confirm that iCCM has strengthened the community health system.

“Early treatment and improved referrals have reduced complications significantly. I urge all the CHPs to continue educating and attending to the communities, as you have been empowered with the skills,” notes Turkana North Sub-County Nutrition Officer, Jemester Kakuta.

TCDM officials attribute the gains to consistent capacity building.

“Investing in grassroots health workers is what has made this lasting change possible, coupled with their commitment to working closely with the communities they serve realizing the goals of this initiative,” explained Martin Imoni, Health and Nutrition Officer at TCDM.

While addressing the CHPs in Lokapelipus, Calis Elamach, Deputy Director Nutrition and Deities called upon CHPs to work for the people. “As the foot soldiers, we must commit ourselves to saving lives by doing right by our people,”

The iCCM approach has improved access, boosted early detection, enhanced emergency response, and ensured that even remote households receive timely, lifesaving care.

Story by: Esther Mwangi, Assistant Director, Public Communication and Media Relations