In November 2022, 22 healthcare providers from Isiolo and Vihiga Counties were taught Paediatric Cardiovascular Disease diagnosis, treatment, and management for 5 days. The goal of the training was to increase the capacity of the healthcare providers in Vihiga and Isiolo Counties to provide optimal treatment, care, and support for chronic NCDs. The PEN Plus project would increase the capacity of health workers in the counties to manage severe noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as Rheumatic Heart Disease. The project will provide self-management education to children and adults with type 1 diabetes, rheumatic heart disease, and sickle cell disease, as well as their parents/care partners, as well as adults with complicated NCDs such as insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes, severe hypertension, kidney disease, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, cancer, and asthma, and their care partners. Nutrition, lifestyle, psychosocial counselling, and palliative care will all be included in the training. [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”122″ gal_title=”Paediatric CVD Training of HCPs – PEN Plus Project”]
MoyoAfya Project Launched in Siaya County
The NCD Alliance Kenya, Philips Foundation and iMedrix launched the MoyoAfya Project on July 21, 2022, at the Siaya County Health offices. The launch was attended by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, County Chief Officer of Health (COH), County Director of Health (CDH), sub-County Medical Officers of Health (SCMOHs), County Health Management Team Members (CHMTs), Project implementation Facility in Charges, County NCD Coordinator, County Teaching and Referral Hospital Medical Superintendent, and the media, among other county officials. The MoyoAfya project aims to strengthen the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) cardiovascular disease (CVD) guidelines implementation. In addition, the study will establish and strengthen CVD control teams, task sharing, and CVD care pathways in the study facilities. In addition, the project will evaluate the costs and benefits associated with introducing Tele-ECG and point-of-care cardiac ultrasound in primary care and develop business case models. Philip Foundation supports the 1-year pilot project aimed to strengthen the implementation of the Kenya CVD guidelines and the capacity of primary healthcare providers in five-level III facilities in Siaya County to undertake CVD diagnosis, treatment, and management. Using an innovative approach, the project aims to design and implement the MoyoAfya CVD care model composed of Tele-ECG and point of care (POC) cardiac ultrasound that improves the capacity to assess cardiovascular risk, triage, detect and treat cardiovascular complications in the primary healthcare setting. NCDs drain people economically, escalating costs of health care. Dr. Caroline Gitonga, Philips Foundation By implementing this innovative CVD care model, it is anticipated that the effectiveness of CVD detection and management in Kenya will be improved, resulting in improved clinical outcomes. Additionally, the MoyoAfya study will contribute to enhanced investments in CVD care. [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”119″ gal_title=”MoyoAfya Project Launch July 2022″]
RE – ADVERTISEMENT : Finance/Administration Assistant
NCD Alliance Kenya is looking for a qualified, passionate, and self-driven individual to support the preparation and maintenance of all necessary and appropriate organisation’s records, files and processes to ensure a smooth and compliant financial operation of NCDAK, focusing on the accuracy and transparency. Job Summary Job Title: Finance/Administration Assistant Position Reports to Finance Officer Position Supervises: None Duty Station: Nairobi office Position duration: 1 Year with possible extension Job Description: Finance Admin Assistant Advert _ NCDAK Oct 2022 Application Submission Interested and qualified persons are invited to submit their CVs and Application letter quoting the current and expected salaries to careers@ncdak.org no later than October 27, 2022, at 5.00 pm. The applications should include the position applied for as the Subject.
RE – ADVERTISEMENT : Programmes Officer
NCD Alliance Kenya is looking for a qualified, passionate, and self-driven individual to provide support with efficient and effective management of its Programs towards achieving its goal and vision. The incumbent will coordinate several projects implemented at the National and Counties levels. Job Title: Programmes Officer Position Reports to Programmes Manager Position Supervises: Program Assistant/s Duty Station: Nairobi office with travel to Counties Position duration: 1 Year with possible extension Job Description: Programmes Officer Advert _ NCDAK Oct 2022 Application Submission Interested and qualified persons are invited to submit their CVs and Application letter quoting the current and expected salaries to careers@ncdak.org no later than October 27, 2022, at 5.00 pm. The applications should include the position applied for as the Subject.
PROVISION OF EXTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
NCDAK is seeking the services of an external auditor to undertake an independent financial audit of the organisation. The selected auditor firm will work with the Secretariat and provide a professional opinion on the financial position of NCD Alliance Kenya. Interested and qualified consultants are invited to submit a technical and financial proposal that includes the following: a) A technical proposal alongside the financial bid outlining their understanding of the assignment, methodology and approaches for the assignment as well as the financial bid in Kenya. b) Curriculum Vitae of the consultant/s detailing the reference list indicating the scope and magnitude of similar assignments, qualifications, registration, and other relevant statutory documents. c) The application will be submitted to careers@ncdak.org no later than 14th October 2022 at 5.00 pm NCDAK_ToR _Auditing Services 20092022
Climate Change Related Health Risks in Mukuru Informal Settlement in Nairobi, Kenya – A Qualitative Study
Abstract: Sub-Saharan Africa has been identified as one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change. The objective of this study was to explore knowledge and perspectives on climate change and health-related issues, with a particular focus on non-communicable diseases, in the informal settlement (urban slum) of Mukuru in Nairobi, Kenya. This is the first qualitative study on climate change and health in an African informal settlement. The study provides important information on perceived health risks, risk factors and adaptation strategies related to climate change. This can inform policy-making, urban planning and health care, and guide future research. One crucial strategy to adapt to climate change-associated health risks is to provide training to local communities, thus ensuring adaptation strategies and climate change advocacy. Climate change and health related risks Nairobi, Kenya [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”108″ gal_title=”Mukuru Climate Change – A Qualitative Study”]
Our Commitment to the Global Charter on Meaningful Engagement of Persons living with NCDs
The National Ministry of Health through the Department of NCDs endorsed the Global Charter of the Meaningful Involvement of Persons Living with NCDs in an event hosted by the Caucus of People Living with NCDs. Through the technical support of NCDAK, the Caucus organised the meeting focused on creating awareness towards the endorsement of the Global Charter of the Meaningful Involvement of Persons Living with NCDs. During the event, the National Senate, Parliament health committees, as well as NCD stakeholders, and representatives demonstrated further engagement of people living with NCDs in crucial decision-making processes in order to highlight the need for prioritisation and increased attention toward NCDs in Kenya. [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”105″ gal_title=”GWA Endorsement of Global Charter”]
Job Advert: Finance/Administration Assistant
Reporting to: Finance Officer Position Supervises: None Duty Station: Nairobi office Position duration: 1 Year with possible extension The NCD Alliance of Kenya (NCDAK) is the national umbrella body of all organisations, patient groups, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations and professional associations involved in advocacy, prevention, control, care and rehabilitation of persons living with or at risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Job Summary NCD Alliance Kenya is looking for a qualified, passionate, and self-driven individual to prepare and maintain all necessary and appropriate records, files and processes to ensure a smooth and compliant financial operation of NCDAK, focusing on accuracy and transparency. Duties and Responsibilities Finance • Assist the Finance Officer in maintaining all financial records for the organization, ensuring proper filing and adherence to NCDAK, government and donor rules and regulations. • Assist in reconciling cash and bank accounts for grants and maintains accurate book-keeping records at the project and organizational level. Assist in the preparation of monthly financial status reports for the organization. • Implement the NCDAK financial and reporting systems for the organization to ensure efficient financial management of grant finances and improvement in accounting skills for the organization. • Prepares original accounting documents and transactions at the organization ensuring compliance, accuracy, relevance, and reasonableness of each transaction. • Supports the Program team in aspects of fundraising strategy, including budgeting for proposals. • Receives requisitions from other staff and ensures timely approval and disbursement of activity funds in the projects in liaison with the Finance and Program Managers. • Documents financial transactions by entering account information and coding payment vouchers and files for data processing and/or payment. Assist in filing of all statutory returns. • Supports the process of sourcing, purchasing and supplying goods to the project and maintaining of an up-to-date Assets Register. • Participates in the internal audits as scheduled and in external audits by providing the auditors with accounting documents as requested and providing explanations to the audit queries. • Any other responsibilities assigned to you in ensuring that the whole organization runs smoothly Administration • Answer, screen and transfer inbound phone calls, receive, and direct visitors and clients. • General clerical duties including assisting in maintaining an electronic and hard copy filing system. • Assist in the preparation and modifying of documents including correspondence, reports, drafts, memos, and emails as directed by relevant officers. • Schedule and coordinate meetings, appointments and travel arrangements for managers or supervisors • Prepare agendas for meetings and prepare schedules as directed by relevant officers. • Record, compile, transcribe and distribute minutes of meetings. • Maintain office supply inventories and coordinate maintenance of office equipment • Assist in coordinating and maintaining records for staff, and petty cash Qualifications and Experience • Degree in Business fields such as accounting or finance • Professional qualifications in CPA / ACCA, at least CPA II • 3 years of relevant experience in NGO financial management/administration • MS Office and experience in computer-based accounting software Skills and Attributes • Analytical skills • Interpersonal • Proactive • Team player • Communication Application submission Interested and qualified persons are invited to submit their CVs and application letter quoting the current and expected salaries to careers@ncdak.org no later than 2nd June 2022 at 5.00 pm. Include the position being applied for using the Subject line “Finance/Administration Assistant” Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Job Advert: Programmes Officer
Reporting to: Programmes Manager Position Supervises: Program Assistant/s Duty Station: Nairobi office with travel to Counties Position duration: 1 Year with possible extension The NCD Alliance of Kenya (NCDAK) is the national umbrella body of all organisations, patient groups, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations and professional associations involved in advocacy, prevention, control, care and rehabilitation of persons living with or at risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Job Summary NCD Alliance Kenya is looking for a qualified, passionate, and self-driven individual to provide support with efficient and effective management to its Programs towards achieving its goal and vision. The incumbent will coordinate several projects implemented at the National and Counties level. Quality requirement • Demonstrate expertise in program cycle management with knowledge and skills in Advocacy, Monitoring & Evaluation. • Awareness and understanding of national and global health issues with emphasis on non-communicable diseases • An understanding of the health system strengthening models for NCDs in Kenya and globally. • Ability to build partnerships with National, County governments and County level health facilities including other stakeholders. • Ability to develop and apply data collection tools, analyse data and generate quality reports. • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral. This includes the ability to make effective presentations to internal and external stakeholders as required. • Good interpersonal relationship skills, strong team player, and working with diverse groups. • Demonstrated ability to initiate and manage projects. • Strong critical thinking skills, ability to solve problems and resourcefulness. • Demonstrated ability to prioritise tasks and work well under pressure. • Ability to work with minimal supervision and provide a high level of professionalism. Key responsibilities • Coordinates all the stages of the programme cycle. (Programme development, planning, fundraising, implementing, monitoring, and evaluation) • Manages day to day running of the program according to the work plans prepared and agreed to. • Manages team activities to ensure that the programme is implemented according to NCDAK’s standards and according to SMART objectives. • Coordinate the capacity building of health care workers on treatment and management of NCDs and community support groups on advocacy. • Implements budget controls on the programme ensuring accurate costing and efficient programme expenditure against the agreed budget. • Prepares regular programme progress reports (both narrative and financial) • In consultation with other team members, helps with the preparation of other NCDAK reports and publications. (Donor Reports, Annual Reports, Publications, etc). • Ensure consistency between the Program and Financial report • Maintain financial oversight of the programs • Liaises with other staff on the development of the programme including fund-raising to increase the impact and coverage of the programme. • Develops a profile of all the partner individuals and organisations that have a stake in the programme. • Manages the implementation of activities and keeps updated records including minutes of meetings with the partner organisations. • Provides technical support to ensure that technical documents of the programme are fully reviewed, discussed, and appropriately disseminated. • Oversees the coordination of sub-programme logistical work including preparation of meetings, forums, workshops, training, and production of reports/minutes thereto • In consultation with the Finance office, prepares project budgets for the planned activities. • Liaises and develop public relation with collaborating partner agencies, government including involved in the programme area • Performs any other responsibility as may be assigned Qualifications and Experience • Degree in Nursing, public health, community health, medical sociology, medical biochemistry, or any other related course. • Four (4) years experience in NGO • Experience in coordination of programmes especially health programmes. • MS Office Skills and Attributes • Project management skills • Advocacy skills • Monitoring and Evaluation • Proposal writing and reporting • Communication skills • Reporting skills • Networking • Organizational and interpersonal skills • Innovative Application submission Interested and qualified persons are invited to submit their CVs and application letter quoting the current and expected salaries to careers@ncdak.org no later than 2nd June 2022 at 5.00 pm. Include the position being applied for using the Subject line “Programmes Officer” Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
What does inclusion mean?
Today is World Down Syndrome Day, a day celebrated every year on March 21 to advocate for the rights of people with living Down Syndrome. In Kenya, the rights of people with Down Syndrome are protected under Article 54 of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution. According to the 2019 census, 2.2 per cent of Kenyans (0.9 million people) live with some form of disability. Down Syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when three copies of chromosome 21 are present in a person’s body. These small packages of genes play an important role in a baby’s development; thus, this extra chromosome can cause developmental issues and mental disorders. Down Syndrome is not an inherited condition. It usually happens by chance at the time of conception. A person with Down Syndrome can be identified by their distinctive physical characteristics, which include a flattened face, slanted eyes, a short neck, small ears, a tongue that sticks out of the mouth, small hands and feet, and tiny spots on the iris of the eye. They are also shorter in height than most children and adults with low muscle tone. How is it diagnosed? • Prenatally – This refers to screening and diagnostic tests performed on the fetus to determine the likelihood of Down syndrome. In Kenya, this type of prenatal screening is not yet available. • At birth – Usually identified at birth by the presence of certain physical traits. Living with Down syndrome Down syndrome is a complex condition that can make one affected more vulnerable to a variety of serious health issues, and delayed milestones during early onset years. Therefore, a team approach to medical management of Down Syndrome is required, led by a paediatrician/paediatric geneticist, and includes speech, occupational, physical therapy, dietician/nutritional support, audiology, and learning needs assessments. A cardiologist and an endocrinologist may also be part of the team. The Challenge People with Down syndrome face numerous challenges, atop Stigma & discrimination such as – Access to education and training – Lack of work and employment – Access to affordable healthcare Kenya has very good and clear policies in place, but most fail to consider the importance of a lived experience by including meaningful inclusion of people with Down syndrome in policies or program designing, making implementation difficult. Persons with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities are frequently absent in advocacy work, even within organizations that represent these groups, many of which began as parent and family organizations. It is critical to continue increasing the participation and inclusion of people living with Down syndrome as self-advocates for greater impact. For support, please contact T21 families Support Group Ability Therapy, Murbarak Rd, off Muchai drive Email: T21familieske@gmail.com Website https://t21familieske.org/ Down Syndrome Society of Kenya Studio House, Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Westlands Email: nationalcoordinator@dssk.or.ke Website: https://www.dssk.or.ke/ Down Syndrome International 7-9 Chapel Street, Exmouth, Devon, contact@ds-int.org Website: https://www.ds-int.org/