Zipline Technology, an American medical product delivery company has committed to distribute one million doses of Covid-19 vaccines within the 14 Lake Region Counties.
This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Kisumu County Government ahead of the rollout of drone technology in delivery of medical supplies.
Speaking in Kisumu on February 16, Zipline Senior Vice President Daniel Marfo said the commitment would be part of the pilot project for the technology.
“We commit to deliver one million Covid-19 vaccines across the region, and when we set up fully, we will ensure that our staffs are 100 per cent locals,” said Marfo.
He said the firm had used the technology to deliver over five million Covid-19 vaccines in Rwanda and Ghana, and that there are ongoing improvements to ensure it is more secure and efficient.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr.Mathews Owili said the at least 351,000 people have been vaccinated across the county, with 156,000 having had full dose.
“The county government is committed to work with Zipline and other counties of Lake Region Economic Bloc to make this a success,” said Owili.
Owili said the project will improve the overall delivery of healthcare services and accelerate timely healthcare solutions.
The technology which uses drones that fly under sky maps for its supplies can operate around an 80 kilometer radius and has the ability to carry a 1.8 kg load.