MTRH Children’s Neurodevelopment Centre Set to Deliver Comprehensive Care and Education

Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has broken ground on the Wezesha Watoto Children’s Neurodevelopment Centre, a pioneering facility offering comprehensive care, education, and support for children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, and learning challenges.
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‎This one-stop centre will provide early screening and diagnosis, therapies, behavioural and educational support, as well as training for caregivers and teachers, alongside family counselling. Well-child clinics will also be included to reduce stigma.
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‎The centre, borne from a decade-long partnership between Kenyan and U.S. pediatric specialists through AMPATH Kenya addresses the needs of Kenya’s 1 in 5 children with disabilities, overcoming barriers like stigma, limited transport, and cultural misconceptions.“This centre ensures specialized care to help every child reach their potential,” said Professor Eren Oyungu, co-director of the centre.
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‎Dr. Megan S. McHenry of Indiana University emphasized the compassionate, evidence-based care the centre will offer.
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‎Building on AMPATH’s neurodevelopmental programs, the centre incorporates initiatives like Pepea Pamoja (caregiver support), Tumaini (toilet training), and Takia (digital education for reducing stigma). It will also serve as a hub for education, training, and research, including the Wezesha Walimu teacher training project.
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‎MTRH CEO Dr. Philip Kirwa highlighted that families will no longer struggle to find support.
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‎The groundbreaking was attended by leaders from MTRH, Moi University, Indiana University, and local families, marking a significant step toward empowering children with developmental challenges.

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