More than 3,000 residents across Laikipia and Samburu counties have received free healthcare services through a transformative medical outreach jointly organized by the British Army, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), Samburu County Government, and the Beyond Zero initiative.
Conducted under Exercise Haraka Serpent, the mission targeted nine remote locations—three each in Laikipia North, Laikipia West, and Samburu County—including Lokusero, Musul, Nosorai, Laresoro, Sereolipi, Archer’s Post, Suguroi, Mathira, and Kanduturai. The initiative aimed to address healthcare access gaps in underserved communities.
Comprehensive Health Services Delivered:
Residents received a wide array of preventive, diagnostic, and curative services, including:
- Maternal health and family planning
- Nutrition screening
- HIV/AIDS testing and counselling
- Cervical cancer screening
- ENT check-ups
- Immunisations for children
- Health education sessions
- Treatment for common conditions like respiratory infections
“We’ve treated over 3,000 people, and for many of our medics, this has been a valuable first experience in Kenya,” said Robert Mathews, of the British Army’s 202 Multi Role Medical Regiment (MMR), applauding the close cooperation with KDF medics.
Training and Defence Collaboration
The initiative also featured a Defence Engagement program at Kahawa Garrison in Nairobi, where MMR clinicians delivered training in austere pre-hospital care. A total of 45 KDF personnel were trained in casualty care and field medical response.
“Our goals were to deliver healthcare to marginalised areas, improve our operational readiness, and enhance cooperation with BATUK,” noted Lieutenant Brian Kiplimo, a KDF Nursing Officer.
Strengthening UK–Kenya Ties
British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, praised the operation as a powerful example of UK–Kenya collaboration:
“This outreach exemplifies the strength of the UK–Kenya partnership. We’ve delivered life-saving services, strengthened military collaboration, and reaffirmed our shared commitment to progress.”
Local leaders and residents have lauded the effort, emphasizing the profound impact of bringing essential healthcare to hard-to-reach areas. The success of Exercise Haraka Serpent highlights the importance of cross-sector partnerships in expanding health equity and strengthening bilateral relations.
