Juliet K.
Biography
Safari Doctors was registered as a community-based organization in Lamu, Kenya in 2015. Our mission is to provide innovative, community-driven healthcare solutions that promote well-being for marginalized communities in Lamu County.
The indigenous Aweer and Bajuni communities live within the archipelago and on the mainland near the border with Somalia. Neglect and insecurity continue to impede their right to access healthcare.
Each month, the team sets sail in a boat loaded with medicines and conducts mobile clinics across at least 11 villages. Together with regular outreach work, the team reaches up to 800 patients a month.
Safari Doctors operates a youth Health Ambassadors programme, engaging young men and women who receive basic health education and training, to facilitate our work and become
health leaders in their communities.
As part of our holistic approach to community health, our Safari Vet cares for hundreds of animals. During our outreach work, we provide veterinary services and carry out community awareness sessions on animal welfare and One Health.
Our team also operates a civic education program to build indigenous women's capacity to
engage in County health budget processes and inform policy.
In 2017, the UN in Kenya awarded the Safari Doctors team the United Nations Person of the Year award, "for the outstanding efforts and commendable work providing medical care to marginalized communities in the far reaching areas of Lamu."
