KISUMU, Kenya – President William Ruto has committed Sh 400 million for the infrastructural upgrade and modernisation of the Kisumu County Referral Hospital, a facility originally built during the colonial era.
The President made the announcement on Friday at the Kisumu State Lodge, where he hosted the Muslim community to mark Idd Mubarak celebrations.
The pledge comes in response to a joint appeal by Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and Kisumu Central MP Dr. Joshua Oron, who highlighted the urgent need to revamp the aging facility.
The Level 5 hospital, currently struggling to serve a rapidly growing population of over two million residents, will undergo a major transformation aimed at equipping it with modern technology and specialized care services.
Leaders present noted that the initiative will be a game changer in healthcare provision for the region.
“The current facility is a colonial relic that can no longer meet the health demands of our people,” said Dr. Oron, who also serves as a member of the Parliamentary Health Committee. “This commitment will give our people access to quality and dignified healthcare.”
Governor Nyong’o welcomed the move, describing it as a significant step toward bridging the healthcare gap in the county.
In addition to the hospital upgrade, President Ruto responded to a request by Dr. Oron by committing Ksh 20 million to kickstart the construction of a modern Jamia Mosque in Kisumu. The President further directed Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho to organize a mega fundraiser to ensure the completion of the facility, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to religious inclusion and national cohesion.
Meanwhile, the President is expected to officially commission the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Kisumu, alongside his Ugandan counterpart, Yoweri Museveni.
The 371-kilometer line from Naivasha to the Malaba border is projected to spur economic growth, positioning Kisumu as a regional business hub.
Future partnerships with regional leaders from Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are expected to see the line extended further, unlocking new trade corridors.
The Friday event underscored a spirit of collaboration between national and county leaders, with both levels of government uniting to push for development that directly impacts the lives of Kisumu residents.
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