Kirinyaga County has unveiled an AI-powered digital X-ray system aimed at improving early diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB).
The unveiling of the new equipment during the county’s World TB Day 2025 celebrations marks a significant milestone in the fight against TB, a disease that remains a serious public health concern.
World TB Day is celebrated annually on 24th March to raise awareness of infectious diseases. This year’s theme, Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver, is a bold call for hope, urgency, and accountability in combating the disease.
The new digital X-ray machine, which utilises advanced automated technology and pre-installed Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) software, promises to revolutionize the county’s TB screening efforts.
Its precision in interpreting X-ray images enhances diagnosis, speeding up treatment and minimising further transmission of the disease.
Speaking during the celebrations held at Kutus Town on Monday, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Medical Services, Public Health, and Sanitation, George Karoki, expressed confidence in the role of the new technology in curbing TB infections.
“The AI-enabled X-ray is portable, allowing us to take it to TB hotspots and remote areas, bringing diagnosis closer to the people,” Karoki said.
He noted that enhanced TB screening services in the county have seen improved outcomes, with 1,597 cases detected in 2024, up from 1,516 in 2023, noting that the outcomes were expected to be better with the entrance of new technology and equipment.
“Detecting TB early is vital because around 50% of cases are asymptomatic, and the faster we can diagnose and treat TB, the less likely it is to spread in the community,” noted Karoki, adding that once diagnosed, the disease is treatable and incurable.
Governor Anne Waiguru, in her message during the celebration, reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to reducing TB in the county.
“TB remains one of the leading causes of death among people living with HIV. Yet, it is preventable, treatable, and curable. We will continue to educate both healthcare workers and the public on the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment,” Waiguru said.
The new X-ray unit was acquired through collaboration with the Dhabiti Project and LVCT Health.
The Director of the Dhibiti Project, Dr. Christine Ogolla, emphasised the impact the machine would have on diagnosing TB and HIV, particularly for HIV patients who are more susceptible to TB, noting that misdiagnosis and delayed detection have been significant challenges.
“This technology will therefore not only improve TB detection but will also help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives,” she noted.
Some testimonials from individuals who have overcome TB offered hope and encouragement to others facing the disease.
Charity Wanjiru, a TB survivor who is now a TB champion, shared her personal journey to recovery, urging others to stay hopeful.
“TB is treatable as long as patients faithfully adhere to the prescribed regimen,” Wanjiru said, her story serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of completing the full course of treatment.
John Ochieng, a lab technician and TB survivor, also spoke passionately about his experience, encouraging others to take persistent coughs seriously.
“Anyone can get infected with TB; early diagnosis and treatment saved my life, and it can save others too,” Ochieng said.
Kirinyaga County has 94 TB facilities, out of which 69 offer diagnostic services while 25 offer treatment services.
By Mutai Kipngetich
