The first batch of Cuban doctors have arrived in Kenya's capital Nairobi, as controversy continues to swirl over the deal.
BBC reports that the 50 doctors, who are mostly women, were received by Kisumu County Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o and Dr Rashid Aman, chief administrative secretary at the Health Ministry, after arriving on Tuesday night at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The Cubans have come amid controversy surrounding their pay and treatment, including privileges such as furnished apartments, security and transport.
Dr Aman confirmed that the next group of 50 doctors is expected on Thursday evening.
The Health Ministry said the doctors would be taken to the Kenya School of Government for a two-week induction, before being deployed around the country's 47 counties.
“We will take them through a rigorous programme, introducing them to the country, the system, how things work and the health sector in this country,” said Dr Aman.
The Kenyan government will link them up with local doctors and facilities, hoping they will be able to share their experience.
The Cubans will mentor Kenyan doctors and engage in knowledge exchange, said Dr Aman.
Specialists among the Cuban doctors will include five kidney specialists, known as nephrologists, three radiologists, plastic surgeons, orthopaedic surgeons and neurologists.
About 50 Kenyan doctors will be sent to Cuba for specialised training, especially in family medicine, in September, the Health Ministry said.
