Over the past five years the CEKA Kenyan Dental project has gratefully received 150,000 euro from the Toothfairy Foundation.

This money has been used to fund three projects in the medical clinic at Embul Bul on the outskirts of Nairobi. Two years ago we purchased a very useful mobile dental clinic which has been used by all visiting Irish dentists. With it, we have been able to access schools in very disadvantaged areas of Nairobi and more remote parts outside of the city.

This year 54,000 euro will be used to fund the installation of a water purification system for the school and clinic. We are particularly happy with this project as it will have obvious health benefits as well as addressing the recognised toxic levels of fluoride in the local water supply. These levels are 40 times the World Health Organisation accepted levels and have resulted in severe tooth defects causing tooth decay and disfiguration.

In April 2007, following the installation of the water system we plan to introduce an education programme at the medical clinic and school. This will explain the benefits of clean water for pregnant women and infants and will encourage them to use the new water supply free of charge.

Last year we have purchased a sterilisation unit and generator which are used by the mobile dental unit in remote areas. We also contribute to the running of the clinics 4x4 truck which is used on a daily basis and as an ambulance when needed.

The funds for CEKA are held under the supervision of Professor Noel Claffey, Dean of Dublin Dental Hospital.