KDF Partners With Margaret Kenyatta's Multi-Million Legacy Project

Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta during a meeting on July 22, 2022
Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta during a meeting on July 22, 2022, and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers and residents on Thursday, April 20, 2023.
Photo/DPPS/KDF

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), on Thursday, April 20, partnered with Beyond Zero Campaign, a project managed by former first lady Margaret Kenyatta, to treat over 200 residents.

KDF troops from 25 mechanised infantry battalions (MIB) operating under Maliza Uhalifu stationed at Kirimun, in Laikipia North, partnered with Beyond Zero Campaign to provide free medical checkups.

The mobile clinic, one of the projects under the Beyond Zero Campaign, was used to offer general check-ups, including upper respiratory conditions, skin conditions, deworming and Mother-Child care.

In a statement by KDF, the partnership mostly benefitted women, children and the elderly.

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers with locals during a medical camp in Laikipia North on Thursday April 20, 2023
Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers with locals during a medical camp in Laikipia North on Thursday, April 20, 2023.
Photo/KDF

KDF also acquired the services of medical professionals in the region. Following the kind gesture, the locals appreciated KDF and Beyond Zero Campaign's initiative

According to KDF, the partnership also helped Major Shadrack Ngetich appeal to residents to share information to address regional insecurity.

"The team was led by Major Shadrack Ngetich, who encouraged the locals to co-exist peacefully and give support to the security agencies to ensure peace is maintained," the KDF statement read in part.

"He also guided them to report any suspicious activities via the National Government Administration Officers and National Police Service," it added.

Beyond Zero Campaign

Beyond Zero Campaign initiative was launched by former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta in January 2014.

The initiative was anchored on fast-tracking the government's agenda in reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, combat other diseases, including malaria and HIV/AIDS.

Mobile clinics were secured to help deliver essential health services and supplies, including mosquito nets.

Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta speeching while celebrating Beyond on July 22, 2022
Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta speaking at a meeting held to celebrate Beyond Zero milestones on July 22, 2022.
Photo/DPPS

The campaign also strengthened existing hospitals, referrals and emergency services.

On Friday, April 8, the firmer First Lady pledged to focus on running and growing the Margaret Kenyatta Institute for Gender and Social Development, born from her Beyond Zero Campaign.

"Beyond Zero will continue to run independently because we have local support as well as international partners willing to walk with us in championing the welfare of children, girls and women in the country," she stated.