Simon, a clinical officer, has dedicated nearly five years of his life to serving the people of Mathare, an informal settlement in Kenya notorious for its challenges, including poverty, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of proper sanitation. Despite these difficulties, Simon has remained passionate about his work, driven by the desire to make a difference in the lives of the people he treats. His day starts early, at 6 a.m., as he prepares to see a steady flow of patients. His work includes treating illnesses and offering counselling. But one of the most impactful parts of his job is helping young girls access essential healthcare services through the Tiko programme.
“I have always had the passion to help people,” Simon says, reflecting on his decision to become a clinician.
Simon’s journey with Tiko began through a friend who was working at a Tiko-supported facility called Shofco. Since then, he has seen firsthand the difference Tiko makes in the lives of young people who otherwise might not have access to essential healthcare services. “Tiko is a good thing because they are helping girls who have no money to get the services they need. Many come in for counselling, HIV testing, or family planning, and Tiko makes sure they get the services.” Simon shares. On any given day, Simon and his team see about 10 to 15 girls aged 15 to 19 through Tiko. The programme has not only brought vital healthcare services to Mathare’s youth but also increased awareness and education around critical health issues like family planning and HIV prevention.
One story he recalls is that of a 17-year-old girl who came to the clinic for family planning services. The girl had a six-month-old child, a boyfriend, and no intention of having another child anytime soon. But she couldn’t afford family planning services. Desperate, she asked if there was any way she could receive the services for free. That’s when Simon and his team introduced her to Tiko, calling in mobilisers to enrol her in the program. Through Tiko, the young girl received the family planning support she desperately needed. “Since Tiko came on board, we’ve been able to create more awareness about family planning, and now it is rare to see girls with unintended pregnancies,” Simon says.
Simon’s work in Mathare isn’t without its challenges. The high population density, limited resources, and the stigma surrounding certain health issues often make his job difficult. However, the support from Tiko has made the community more resilient in the face of these challenges.
Healthcare workers like Simon are everyday heroes. They work tirelessly to make sure even those who can’t afford medical care get the help they need. As we celebrate World Health Workers Week, we recognise and appreciate the dedication of people like Simon Njau, who bring care and hope to the most vulnerable communities.
*This story was written by Tiko with consent from Simon and the client from Mathare.