Riyadh: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has launched the Sama’a Volunteer Program, a Saudi-led program for cochlear implants and auditory rehabilitation in Kenya, offering vital medical support to children affected by hearing loss.
The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center’s media department told Arab News on Friday that the program will provide 25 cochlear implant surgeries at Avenue Hospital in Nairobi and support 50 families with post-operative training in speech therapy and auditory rehabilitation.
“A team of 19 specialized medical volunteers will carry out the procedures and training over the coming days,” said KSrelief.
The launch event was attended by Saudi Ambassador to Kenya Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Salman; Mutahi Kagwe, Kenya’s minister of health; and Jibril Ibrahim Abdullahi, ambassador of Somalia to Kenya.
Children from Somalia are also among the expected beneficiaries, highlighting the program’s regional scope.
Commenting on the program, Dr. Aqeel Al-Ghamdi, assistant supervisor-general for planning and development at KSrelief, said: “Hearing loss affects each child differently. Some are born with it, others lose it later, but what they share is the potential to connect, learn and thrive when given the right care. That is what this program is here to support.”
The Sama’a Saudi Program is part of KSrelief’s broader efforts to expand access to specialized healthcare for vulnerable communities across Africa and beyond.
The Kenyan Ministry of Health posted on X: “Cabinet Secretary of Health Aden Duale launched the Volunteer Medical Porgram for Cochlear Implantation and Audio Rehabilitation for Children at a Nairobi hotel, in partnership with KSrelief. The initiative brings together advanced technology and skills transfer to support children with hearing loss.
“Aligned with Kenya’s National Ear and Hearing Care Strategic Plan (2023–2028) and UHC goals, the program is part of efforts to reverse the causes of childhood hearing loss through a comprehensive, person-centered approach.”
Duale highlighted the inclusion of hearing devices in the Kenya Essential Medical Supplies List (2023) and partial coverage for cochlear implants under the SHA benefits package.
The donation targeting 1,000 children across Africa has so far seen the implantation of the top-of-the-range hearing aids to 30 children aged between 3-5 years in Kenya (15) and Somalia (15). The implants correct severe to profound deafness.
Duale highlighted the importance of partnerships in strengthening ear and hearing care, and building a strong, inclusive health system.
He described the collaboration as a symbol of unity in restoring dignity, opportunity, and hope for children and families who need it most.
