Uasin Gishu Leaders Unite for Mater Heart Run, Donate KSh 200,000 to Save Children with Heart Conditions

Residents of Uasin Gishu County joined senior county officials, healthcare professionals, and students on Saturday during the Mater Heart Run event held at Moi Girls High School in Eldoret, in a strong show of support for children battling heart conditions.

The event was led by Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Hon. Evans Kapkea, who represented Governor H.E Dr. Jonathan Bii and reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare for vulnerable children in need of cardiac treatment.

Speaking during the event, Kapkea praised the impact of the Mater Heart Run initiative, describing it as a life-changing programme that continues to restore hope to families affected by heart disease.

“Through partnerships and collective support, we can continue saving the lives of children born with heart complications and give families renewed hope,” said the Deputy Governor.

In a major boost to the initiative, Kapkea, accompanied by County Executive Committee Member for Health Services Janet Kurgat, presented a dummy cheque worth KSh 200,000 to support the Mater Heart Run programme. The donation, county officials said, demonstrates the devolved unit’s commitment to supporting life-saving medical interventions for children from vulnerable families.

An emotional highlight of the ceremony was the testimony of Irene, the mother of young Nehemiah Kibet, who was born with a hole in the heart. Irene narrated how her son successfully underwent treatment through support from the Mater Heart Run programme and is now recovering well.

“I am grateful because my child has been given a second chance at life,” she said, drawing emotions from the crowd.

Kapkea urged individuals, organizations, and development partners to rally behind the initiative, emphasizing that joint efforts are key to ensuring more children receive critical heart treatment.

The Mater Heart Run has continued to play a vital role in financing heart surgeries and treatment for children across Kenya, with leaders calling on more stakeholders and well-wishers to support the noble cause.

The Deputy Governor was accompanied by County Executive Committee Members Janet Kurgat (Health Services), Robert Kemei (Youth and Sports), and Philip Chebunet (Trade and Industrialization). Also present were Chief Officers Dr. Billy Lubanga (Promotive and Preventive Health) and Ambrose Tarus (Clinical Services), alongside section heads and other county officials.