A few weeks have passed since our departure from Kisumu, and as I reflect on our experience, I’d like to echo some key insights shared by Kelsey and Sahil in their final reflections.
Our work was characterized by its dynamic and multifaceted nature. Kelsey emphasized the importance of laying foundational groundwork—an often-overlooked aspect that, though not always immediately visible, is crucial for a project’s future success. While urgent and important tasks may appear different, they are equally vital for overall success. Sahil highlighted the necessity of workflow improvements, noting that in resource-constrained situations, adapting our tasks and optimizing workflow are not just helpful but essential. This became evident as we managed limited resources and numerous ongoing tasks. Streamlining workflow was critical to enhancing team efficiency and achieving our goals.
A key project where many of these lessons came to fruition was the U54 initiative, which aimed to screen women for HPV and vaccinate young girls across Siaya County through community health fairs. During our final week, the health fairs were in full swing, with one at a new location each day of the week. Witnessing the health fairs unfold was a powerful testament to how meticulous planning translates into tangible results.
U54 Health Fair attendees in Siaya County
The health fairs themselves were a marvel of coordination. Women checked in at registration desks, where their information was entered into the database to ensure eligibility for screening. They then attended health talks by Community Health Promoters (CHPs), who provided crucial information on HPV, cervical health, and self-screening techniques. After the talks, women proceeded to the screening rooms where Research Assistants confirmed their information and facilitated the screening process. Simultaneously, children from local schools received their HPV vaccinations at a separate station. The seamless execution of these many moving parts required precise planning and coordination.
Women receiving health education counselling at a U54 health fair in Siaya County
Reflecting on this process, I am struck by the scale of effort involved. From our initial visits to schools to gather HPV vaccination records and coordinate logistics during our very first week in Kisumu, to creating and disseminating informational materials and mobilizing the community with loudspeakers, every step was essential. Seeing the health fairs in action reinforced that while the impact of each small action might not be immediately apparent, every detail—whether a flier, a poster, or a minor logistical task—plays a crucial role in piecing together the larger puzzle and ensuring a project’s success.
Supplies used during U54 Health Fairs in Siaya County
Ultimately, the team’s efforts resulted in over 600 women screened and more than 250 girls vaccinated. With nearly a third of these women testing positive for HPV and set to receive free treatment, it’s evident that initiatives like these have the power to save and transform lives. This experience underscores that in global health research, success isn’t just about meeting targets or achieving goals; it’s about making a genuine, positive impact. True success is defined by the tangible improvements and lasting differences made in the lives of those served.
“This experience underscores that in global health research, success isn’t just about meeting targets or achieving goals; it’s about making a genuine, positive impact.”
This experience has shown me that every element of global health work, whether visible or behind the scenes, is crucial to a project’s success. The smooth execution of any initiative reflects the dedication, collaboration, and often-unseen groundwork that makes it all possible. Our time in Kisumu powerfully demonstrated this, reinforcing the importance of every effort, no matter how small, in achieving meaningful results. This is a lesson I will carry forward, always remembering the significance of every contribution to a project’s larger impact.
