GARISSA— Women healthcare professionals at Garissa County Teaching and Referral Hospital play a vital role in delivering quality medical services and strengthening healthcare access across Garissa County.
From specialized treatment to surgical care and maternal health services, women at the hospital continue to lead in key departments, providing frontline care and improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Amina Rashid, a gynecologist at the facility, said women healthcare workers play a critical role in strengthening maternal and reproductive health services in the region.
“Women healthcare workers understand the unique challenges mothers face. We work every day to ensure safe deliveries, early detection of complications and improved reproductive health services for women across the county,” she observed.
The medical doctor specializes in the health of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and breasts and acknowledged that demand for specialized maternal care has continued to rise in the region.
Dr. Amina, a leading female gynecologist in the region called for sustained investment in skilled personnel and equipment to support mothers and newborns.
At the Eye Unit, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology Dr. Amal Al-Shabibi said the hospital has expanded eye care services to address increasing cases of preventable blindness and vision-related complications.
The Eye Unit offers a wide range of specialist services, including glaucoma surgery, paediatric cataract surgery, dermoid and conjunctiva excision, cataract operations, and community eye screening.
“Our focus is to improve access to eye care and ensure patients receive timely diagnosis and treatment. Women in healthcare are not only caregivers but also leaders in specialized medical services,” said Dr. Al-Shabibi.
She explained that the unit receives patients from across Garissa and more than 10 neighbouring counties, and others from neighboring Somalia and Ethiopia.
Dr. Al-Shabibi pointed out the referrals to the facility highlight the importance of strengthening specialized services at the referral hospital.
Installation of new ophthalmic equipment at its eye clinic, alongside an intensive training programme for clinical and technical staff has enhanced the unit’s diagnostic and surgical capacity.
Dr. Al-Shabibi said this has enabled clinicians to detect eye diseases earlier and manage them more effectively. The upgrades have also enhanced diagnostic precision and broadens the hospital’s capacity to treat both routine and complex eye conditions.
In the operating theatre, Theatre Nurse In-Charge Saadia Barre said teamwork and preparedness are critical in ensuring safe surgical procedures and positive patient outcomes.
“Theatre work requires precision, coordination and teamwork. We ensure equipment is ready, patients are prepared and surgical teams are supported to deliver safe and quality care,” said Barre.
She stated that women continue to play an important role in surgical services, supporting emergency operations and routine procedures.
Mr. Yunis Dekow, the Chief of Press Service said Women at Garissa County Teaching and Referral Hospital said women serve across departments including maternity, outpatient services, laboratory, theatre, and community outreach, contributing to improved healthcare delivery in the region.
“Despite challenges such as high patient numbers and limited resources, the hospital’s women professionals continue to demonstrate resilience, professionalism and commitment to patient care.”
Mr. Dekow outlined the leadership of Governor Nathif Jama recognition of the role of women healthcare workers and their contribution to strengthening healthcare systems and improving the well-being of communities across Garissa County.
The facility spokesperson said Garissa Referral Hospital implements policies that were in the manifesto of Governor Nathif Jama during the campaign to promote gender equity.
Mr. Dekow stated that the county leadership is committed to ensuring women meaningfully participate in all aspects of healthcare service delivery.
“Through leadership, technical expertise, and dedication, women healthcare professionals continue to strengthen efforts toward a safer, healthier, and more resilient community in Garissa County.”
