CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF MOMBASA LAUNCHES HPV AWARENESS CAMPAIGN WITH FREE MEDICAL CAMP.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa, in partnership with AHETI (Africa Health and Education Training Institute) and the Mombasa County Department of Health Services, has launched a major Human Papillomavirus (HPV) awareness campaign and cervical cancer screening aimed at promoting the prevention of cervical cancer and other HPV-related illnesses.

The campaign was officially launched on Saturday, 27th September 2025, during a free medical camp held at Mbungoni Health Centre in Mombasa. The event brought together clergy, medical professionals, county health officials, and residents who turned up to receive a wide range of free medical services.

Most Rev. Martin Kivuva Musonde, Archbishop of the Mombasa Archdiocese, presided over the launch and emphasized the need for routine screening, vaccination, and community health education in tackling preventable diseases, particularly among women and girls.

"Access to health services should not be a privilege. It is a right," said Archbishop Kivuva. "We must continue working together to ensure that no one is left behind, especially in matters of prevention and early detection."

The Archbishop also toured the health facility, visiting and praying with patients, accompanied by Sister Regina Nyiva Musyimi, the Archdiocese Health Coordinator.

Father David Opondo, a paediatrician at Mbungoni Health Centre, welcomed the Archbishop and briefed him on the ongoing services offered at the facility. Facility in-charge Victor Ondieki addressed members of the press, stressing the importance of continued collaboration between religious institutions and government in delivering essential healthcare to underserved communities.

However,the free medical camp offered services including HPV vaccination for girls aged 9, cervical cancer screening,antenatal care clinic for pregnant women,blood sugar testing,eye check-up,prostate cancer screening,breast cancer screening and reproductive health ultrasound-600ksh. A medical officer led a session on the importance of routine health screenings and the range of preventive services available to the community.

Speaking during the event, Imani Baraka, Mombasa County Head of Vaccines and Immunization, praised the initiative, stating:

“We are proud to collaborate with faith-based organizations in reaching communities that may otherwise lack access to accurate health information and essential services.”

Sister Regina Musyimi, who also addressed the media, reiterated the Archdiocese’s commitment to bridging healthcare gaps through faith-based outreach, especially for vulnerable groups.

Community members also expressed their gratitude for the services provided.
Khadija, a resident of Mbungoni, shared:

“I am happy about the free medical camp. I have been educated and treated. I urge my fellow residents to show up and take advantage of the services offered.”

Another woman from the area said she came for an eye check-up and cervical cancer screening.

“Going to the hospital is a big challenge because I can’t afford it. This medical camp helped me get the care I need without worrying about money.”

The launch marks the beginning of a wider sensitization campaign that will roll out across the coastal counties of Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, and Taita-Taveta. The initiative aims to demystify the HPV vaccine, promote early cervical cancer screening, and ultimately reduce the disease burden in the region.