Sen. Beth Syengo (Nominated) has raised concerns before the Senate Standing Committee on Health regarding the availability of antivenom and the overall support framework for snakebite victims in Kitui County.
The Senator noted that snakebites remain a persistent public health challenge in the county, with hundreds of cases reported annually, while many more incidents are believed to go unrecorded due to gaps in surveillance and reporting.
She observed that despite ongoing efforts to stock antivenom, inconsistencies in supply, limited access to species-specific treatment and inadequate public awareness continue to expose communities to avoidable deaths and long-term health complications.
Sen. Syengo further raised concern over the lack of structured support for victims and their families, noting that snakebite cases have largely been excluded from government compensation frameworks, leaving affected households to shoulder the financial and social burden.
She emphasized the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response that strengthens medical preparedness, ensures equitable access to treatment and enhances community sensitization, particularly in high-risk and snake-prone areas.
In her request, the Senator asked the Committee to provide an updated assessment of Level Four hospitals in Kitui County, including measures in place to ensure consistent availability of antivenom across all sub-counties.
She also called for details on plans to equip health facilities with species-specific antivenom and to enhance the capacity of healthcare workers to accurately diagnose and manage snakebite cases.
Additionally, Sen. Syengo requested information on strategies being implemented to reinstate and streamline compensation mechanisms for snakebite victims and their families.
She further urged the Committee to outline measures aimed at strengthening public awareness on snakebite prevention, first aid response and access to compensation, including collaboration with relevant agencies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service.
By Anthony Solly
