World Oral Health Day in Makueni County

Nduluku Primary School, Makueni County, Kenya

World Oral Health Day was commemorated on the 20th of March in Makueni at Nduluku Primary School, bringing together healthcare professionals, government representatives, community members, and other stakeholders to promote oral health awareness. The event emphasized the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and the impact of oral health on overall well-being.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the celebration included:

  • Raising awareness about oral health and hygiene practices

  • Educating the public on the prevention of common oral diseases

  • Providing free dental check-ups and consultations

  • Engaging stakeholders in advocating for better oral healthcare services.

Professor Regina Mutave addressing the public on oral health matters

 

Activities

The event featured a series of activities aimed at engaging the community and spreading knowledge on oral health. These activities included:

  • Free Dental Check-ups: Qualified dentists provided free oral health examinations and consultations

  • Educational Talks: Experts shared insights on the importance of oral hygiene, proper brushing techniques, and common dental diseases

  • Demonstrations: Practical demonstrations on proper tooth brushing and flossing were conducted

  • Distribution of Oral Care Kits: Attendees received toothbrushes, toothpaste, and educational materials

  • Community Engagement: Local leaders and health officials addressed the audience on the importance of prioritizing oral health

 

Stakeholder Involvement

The event was supported by various stakeholders, including:

  • The Ministry of Health

  • County Government Officials

  • CORE Project

  • Kenya Dental Association

  • Schools and community groups

Governor Dancing with Community Women’s Group

Impact and Outcomes

A total of 1,024 individuals were attended to during the World Oral Health Day event held in Makueni County. The outreach covered a range of health services:

  • Oral Screening and Procedures: 481 individuals received various dental services, including check-ups, treatments, and health education

  • Eye Health Services: 188 individuals were screened and received support related to eye care

  • Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): 180 individuals were assessed and provided with relevant health advice or interventions

  • Nutrition Services: 27 individuals accessed nutritional assessments and guidance

  • ENT Services (Ear, Nose, and Throat): 38 individuals received specialized care for ENT-related concerns

  • Mental Health and Counselling: 30 individuals benefited from counselling sessions and mental health support

  • School Children Reached: 80 children were attended to during the school outreach component

  • Increased awareness on oral health, leading to better hygiene practices among attendees

  • Strengthened partnerships between healthcare providers and the community for continued oral health advocacy

Ministry of Health Poster for Pre-World Oral Health Day Webinar Featuring Professor Regina Mutave

 

The CORE Project Principal Investigator (PI) Professor Regina Mutave was honored to be among the distinguished speakers who addressed an audience of over 600 participants in a webinar held in preparation for World Oral Health Day. The event provided a platform to discuss key issues in oral health and engage a diverse audience on its global impact.

As part of the CORE Project’s commitment to fostering community engagement, a local guitarist, who had been toothless, received fully sponsored dentures through the generous support of the Governor. This transformation not only restored his smile but also his confidence and ability to perform.

Toothless Guitarist Received Free Dentures from Governor

Additionally, the community women’s group showcased their cultural heritage by participating in a vibrant traditional dance, further emphasizing the project’s deep-rooted connection with the community. These events reflect the CORE Project’s goal of promoting oral health while actively involving and uplifting the local community.

As part of the CORE Project’s outreach efforts, the Principal Investigator (PI) engaged in extensive public awareness through appearances on two prominent media stations—Mwatu FM and Kamba TV. These stations specifically target the Kamba community, ensuring that vital oral health messages reached a wide and culturally relevant audience.

The broadcasts had a significant impact, reaching thousands of listeners and viewers, further amplifying the project’s objectives and reinforcing the importance of oral health awareness ahead of World Oral Health Day.

Conclusion

The World Oral Health Day celebration in Makueni was a successful initiative in promoting oral health awareness and offering essential dental services to the community. The event highlighted the importance of oral hygiene and the need for continuous education and improved access to dental care. Moving forward, more efforts should be made to ensure sustainable oral health programs for all.