MKU Marks World Oral Health Day 2026 with Free Dental Outreach Transforming Lives in Kapenguria, West Pokot
Mount Kenya University (MKU), through the Department of Dental Sciences under the College of Health Sciences, continues to champion community wellbeing by expanding its outreach mission beyond campus. As part of the global celebrations for World Oral Health Day 2026 the department offered free dental care services on Thursday, 19th March 2026 at Makutano School in Kapenguria, West Pokot County.
This initiative is part of MKU’s ongoing commitment to supporting Communities; a university-wide community outreach campaign that strengthens engagement with the public. Through the support of MKU alumni, dedicated faculty, and students, the outreach aimed to enhance oral health awareness and provide preventive dental care to underserved communities.
The free dental camp was one of the highlights of the current Oral Health Awareness Week, organized by MKU alumnus Ms Christine Semekal, CEO Oral Health Mashinani and a graduate of BSc Oral Health from Mount Kenya University. The activity was carried out in collaboration with Mount Kenya university, County government of West Pokot, Glow Foundation, Arrow Dental and Red Cross Kenya among others.
Mount Kenya University donated toothbrushes and toothpaste to over 2,000 beneficiaries.
Speaking during the event MKU alumnus and Oral Health Association of kenya representative and Council member, Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentist’s Council (KMPDC) Musa Kiptanui applauded the alumni in her effort to empower community in realization of universal health care and the government Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda(BETA) by availing oral health services in the most far flung areas of West Pokot County.
The chief guest, Director public Health west Pokot county, Mr Benson Chumankemer, representing the County Government, recommended the initiative since it’s preventive rather than curative which will eventually reduce disease burden.
MKU Alumni Relations Director, Ms Virginia Kiunga representing Vice-Chancellor Mount Kenya University commended the alumni for her good work in community service in line with the Mount Kenya University pillar of community service.
The partnerships will ensure that residents of Kapenguria and its environs access quality dental services and reliable information on oral health, early detection of dental conditions, and preventive care practices.
West Pokot County, like many rural regions in Kenya, faces challenges in accessing regular dental and oral health services. By bringing this initiative directly to Makutano School, MKU is helping to bridge this gap and ensure that families especially school-going children receive timely dental screenings and advice on maintaining healthy mouths.
Participants benefited from services such as:
– Dental check-ups
– Oral hygiene education
– Referral guidance for advanced care
– A Learning Experience Rooted in Service
For MKU students pursuing dental sciences programs and other health-related programs, the outreach offers invaluable hands-on learning under mentorship from seasoned faculty and alumni. They gain practical exposure to patient care, community engagement, and public health mobilization. This aligns with MKU’s mission to nurture health professionals who are both skilled and community-oriented.
World Oral Health Day is celebrated annually on 20th March to advocate for better oral healthcare worldwide. MKU’s participation reinforces its leadership in health education and its commitment to contributing to global health priorities through local action.
Oral health plays a crucial role in overall wellbeing, yet remains one of the most neglected aspects of primary healthcare. This outreach serves as a reminder that preventive interventions and awareness can significantly reduce the burden of dental diseases.
MKU’s College of Health Sciences has consistently prioritized community outreach as part of its mandate. The World Oral Health Day celebrations in Kapenguria further highlights the university’s unwavering dedication to improving lives through service. Indeed MKU continues to unlock infinite possibilities.
