The doctor of Italians in Kenya (and not only) for 40 years has been awarded by the Ambassador of Italy in Kenya Alberto Pieri with the title of "Cavaliere della Stella d'Italia" (Knight of the Star of Italy), an honor given to compatriots who have distinguished themselves in their profession or mission by holding high the values that have made Italians great in the world by the President of the Republic.
Mauro Saio, in Kenya since 1980, according to the Quirinal, has deserved this honor for his dedication not only to our compatriots, but to patients of all nationalities in Kenya.
As Pieri recalled, Dr. Saio is more than just a luminary in tropical diseases and a forerunner of modern treatments against malaria, but he has been important, if not crucial, in many emergency situations involving Italians in East Africa.
Pieri focused particularly on the last particular period of the pandemic, in which Saio's collaboration for the medical repatriation of some patients seriously ill with Covid-19 proved to be fundamental, as well as his advice in the initial period.
"I am more than honored - said the Turin-born physician - I simply believe I have always done my duty, nothing more. Perhaps the only real reason I could deserve this recognition is that I have contributed to bringing malaria treatment to Africa".
As far as we are concerned, Mauro Saio is not only a dear friend but also the health advisor of malindikenya.net, and also through the portal of Italians in Kenya has dispensed his valuable and wise advice to thousands of compatriots living or passing through this country.
We could not but be present at the event that finally, in compliance with Covid-19 restrictions, was held at the residence of the Italian Ambassador in Nairobi.