Diaspora Affairs Outreach

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER PROGRAM-A NEUROSURGICAL MEDICAL CAMP HELD AT THE COAST

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Friday, July 25, 2025(MOMBASA)_In line with its core mandate to foster and enhance skills, knowledge, and technology transfer, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs participated in a neurosurgical medical camp held at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital-CGTRH. The initiative was organized by Ms. Virginia Weib, a Kenyan nurse based in Germany, through the Sawubona Foundation.

This exercise took place in collaboration with, and at the invitation of, Dr. Benjamin Okanga, a neurosurgeon at CGTRH.

The medical camp offered critical brain and spinal surgery services to patients from the coastal region who would otherwise be unable to afford these specialized procedures. Leading the German delegation was Prof. Dr. Joachim Oertel, a renowned neurosurgeon, who was part of the 16-member medical team conducting the surgeries.

In addition to providing surgical care, the visiting team engaged in capacity-building activities, including skills and knowledge exchange sessions with local medical professionals from critical care units at the hospital.

Representing Ms. Irene Karari, Director in charge of the Skills and Expertise Division, Mr. David Katiambo informed the visiting team that the State Department is currently developing a Skills and Technology Transfer Strategy focused on nurturing local talent in specialized and sub-specialized fields.

Mr. Katiambo reaffirmed SDDA’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships between local and international institutions to create and maximize opportunities for Kenyans, particularly those dedicated to mentoring and developing the country’s skilled youth.

He was accompanied by Mr. Abdilbasid Hassan (Skills & Expertise) and Mr. Ahmed Ketsane (Liaison & Partnerships), both FSOs at SDDA.