Establishing Webuye Health and Demographic Surveillance Site in Rural Western Kenya: Challenges and Lessons Learned

Chrispinus J. Simiyu, Moi University
Violet Naanyu, Moi University
Andrew Obala, Moi University
David Odhiambo, Kenya Red Cross Society
Paul Ayuo, Moi University
Dinah Chelagat, Moi University
Raymond Downing, Moi University
Diana Menya, Moi University
Emily Mwaliko, Moi University
Wendy O'Meara, Duke University
Edwin Were, Moi University
Patrick Chege, Moi University
Ann Mwangi, Moi University
Marc Twagirumukiza, Ghent University
Davy Vanden Broeck, Ghent University
Stanley Shitote, Moi University
Jan De Maeseneer, Ghent University
Barasa Otsyula, Moi University

This paper describes the methodologies, challenges and lessons learned in establishing Webuye Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) in Webuye Division of Bungoma County. The Webuye HDSS was established in 2007 through a collaborative programme between Moi University, (Eldoret, Kenya) and Ghent University (Ghent, Belgium.) through the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR), university cooperation for development (UOS) in Flanders framework. The goal for establishing the HDSS was to provide reliable and comprehensive demographic, health and economic data to inform health policy and planning at local and national levels. The data were collected by households visit within the community twice a year, using field interviewers from the local community. The participatory data collection methods used enhanced locals’ interests to take part in data collection processes.