A Voice for Health: Parsakei’s Commitment to His Community
In the heart of Enchurai Rombo, Kajiado South Sub-County, a determined voice for health echoes through the community. Parsakei Parkepu, a 48-year-old livestock farmer and father of seven, has dedicated the past decade to serving as a Community Health Promoter (CHP). What started as a simple desire to help has transformed into a life mission—to advocate for better health in his community.
Parsakei was a respected elder for a long time, guiding his people through cultural traditions. However, he witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of preventable diseases. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension were rampant, and often overlooked due to a lack of awareness and medical resources. Many of his neighbors struggled with lifestyle-related illnesses, unaware of the simple changes that could save their lives.
Motivated by a sense of duty, Parsakei took action. He knew that as an elder, his voice carried weight. He could challenge harmful cultural norms and promote better health practices. But change was not easy. Poor infrastructure made accessing healthcare facilities difficult. The few health centers in the area often lacked medicines and doctors. Despite these challenges, Parsakei remained resolute in his mission to educate and empower his community.
A turning point came when Entepesi Kenya (EK) launched a hypertension program in the region. For Parsakei, it was a much-needed breakthrough. EK provided training for CHPs like him, equipping them with blood pressure machines and knowledge to conduct two hypertension screening events per month. Additionally, EK offered stipends and transportation support, enabling Parsakei to reach more people in his community.
“Hypertension training helped me gain the knowledge I need to serve my community better,” says Parsakei. “The stipend and transportation support from EK allows me to reach more people who otherwise would not have access to healthcare services.”
Through these screenings, community members are learning to take control of their health. Many have discovered their hypertension status early, preventing complications that could have been fatal. Encouraged by the program’s success, Parsakei urges his community members to attend the monthly events, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups and awareness.
But Parsakei’s vision does not stop at hypertension. He dreams of expanding healthcare services in his community. He hopes that Entepesi Kenya will introduce programs for cervical cancer screening, diabetes management, HIV/AIDS education, and tuberculosis awareness. These, he believes, are critical next steps in safeguarding the health of his people.
“I want to thank Entepesi Kenya for their support,” Parsakei says with heartfelt gratitude. “This program has changed lives, and I hope they will continue expanding their support to include more health services. Our community depends on it.”
Entepesi Kenya remains committed to Quality Health for All. With your support, we can expand essential healthcare services and reach more needy people. Join us in making a lasting impact—support community health programs and be part of the movement toward a healthier future.
Donate to Entepesi Kenya’s Preventative Screening Program