The stoma situation in Kenya is a grave concern since many people who are lucky to undergo surgery lack access to ostomy care and supplies. There are inadequate ostomy and pouching supplies and the existing options are either expensive or ineffective. This forces many ostomates to resort to using unsafe items like plastic bags, towels, rags or rubber gloves which result in more injurious stoma, skin care problems and generally poor quality of health and life.

As a result, ostomates go through a lot of difficulties and challenges in accessing quality ostomy supplies and relevant care that is supposed to help them live normally and in comfort.

Furthermore, many patients who go through the operation are normally not well prepared to handle their new condition. Others may be rejected by family, friends and the people in their communities. This potentially makes them vulnerable to distress situations which could consequently affect their mental and physical health.

KOA, therefore, exists to help ostomates get quality ostomy necessities, particularly ostomy pouching systems, essential information and support crucial to improving their quality of life. We achieve this by sourcing and distributing ostomy supplies from partners and donors to ostomates all over the country. We believe that the lives of ostomates matter is better with a bag.

Additionally, we are involved in creating awareness of stoma, highlighting it as a serious handicap that deserves attention, support and specialized care. KOA also shares useful content about stomas on social media, conferences, support groups, forums, seminars and meetings.

OUR SERVICES

• Collection and storage of new, unused ostomy supplies donated by individuals and organizations.
• Distribution and supply of ostomy supplies to ostomates and caregivers affordably.
• Provision of information and educational resources to ostomates and caregivers.
• Raising awareness of stomas to health authorities, medical practitioners, caregivers and the general public through forums, support groups, seminars and digital media.

OUR PROCESS

1. Identifying potential donors and partners who share our vision.
2. Identifying needy cases and registration.
3. Preparing proposal pitches and presentations to potential donors.
4. Receiving the ostomy provisions and storage at our warehouses.
5. Documentation and recording of the supplies.
6. Sorting and repacking the ostomy supplies.
7. Distribution of ostomy supplies to ostomates and caregivers.