Stephen Okumu

With a wealth of experience in environmental health, staff supervision, monitoring and evaluation, staff training, and development, along with excellent written and oral communication skills, I have cultivated a well-rounded skill set. My organizational and strategic planning capabilities, coupled with data analysis and presentation proficiency, set me apart in the field. I possess an in-depth understanding of both Kenyan and international public health laws.

As a member of esteemed professional affiliations including the Association of Public Health Officers of Kenya and the Field Epidemiology Society of Kenya, I am committed to advancing the field of public health.

My professional journey highlights my specialization in public health, particularly in the following roles:

Resident Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP):

I have successfully conducted numerous field investigations, including addressing cholera, yellow fever, Ebola, and polio outbreaks. My expertise contributed to a comprehensive understanding of public health threats and the implementation of effective interventions. I completed the Centers for Disease Control's Rapid Response Team Management course and Emergency Operations Center's Simulation exercise, enhancing my skills in outbreak preparedness and response. I have improved surveillance systems, provided technical assistance to healthcare workers, collaborated with stakeholders, and actively participated in research and evaluation activities. My leadership and management abilities have been demonstrated through interdisciplinary collaboration and maintaining accurate records.

Public Health Officer Roles:

In my role as a Public Health Officer, I've exhibited adept leadership skills in coordinating water, sanitation, and hygiene efforts. I led the sub-county's Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives, achieving the significant milestone of declaring Rachuonyo East sub-county open defecation free. I've enhanced access to safe drinking water, improved sanitation facilities, and effectively collaborated with stakeholders to address health disparities. Similarly, my role in hospital sanitation and hygiene management led to improved infection prevention and control measures, reducing healthcare-associated infections.

Malaria Control Coordinator:

Over the years, I've excelled as a Malaria Control Coordinator, successfully designing and implementing programs that improved health outcomes and reduced disparities within the community. My expertise in data analysis and surveillance has been pivotal in monitoring program effectiveness and building partnerships with stakeholders to enhance collaboration. I've demonstrated leadership in managing public health professionals, leading to notable achievements such as significant reductions in malaria prevalence and expanded coverage of preventive treatments.

Program Logistician:

As a Program Logistician, I effectively managed the logistics of multiple campaigns, leading to increased coverage and impactful outcomes. My ability to optimize supply chain processes and collaborate with stakeholders resulted in efficient implementation. I've also contributed to robust monitoring and evaluation systems, enhancing transparency and accountability.

Education:

My educational journey includes a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health, ongoing pursuit of a Master's degree in Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training, and various training programs that have equipped me with essential skills in data management, monitoring and evaluation, health systems management, and more.

In summary, my specialization lies in leveraging my expertise in environmental health, epidemiology, and public health to drive impactful interventions, research, and collaborations that improve health outcomes and strengthen public health systems.