The transition of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) to a national corporation received a significant boost with the official unveiling of a Sh129 million ultra-modern kitchen.
The 1st Phase upgrade is a transformative investment by the Russian government through a partnership between UNDP and Kenya.
To enhance the provision of nutritious meals to patients at the Level 6A facility, the expansive design is curated with a main kitchen, cold stores, and a diet kitchen.
It has an in-house bakery that has begun producing fresh bread daily for patients and health workers.
The Chief Guest, Russian Federation Ambassador Mr Vsevolod Tkachenko, who opened the new kitchen, underscored their unwavering commitment to healthcare and people-centric development.
“We highly value the decades-long standing bilateral ties between Russia and Kenya. Our history with the hospital is a clear testimony of our quest to improve general public health,” he said while indicating that similar kitchen upgrades have been rolled out in other three counties.
JOOTRH was first established with funding from the USSR in 1969.
The UNDP Representative-Kenya, Mrs Madelena Monoja, assured that they will continue to assist with the solarization of the kitchen and provision of safe and clean water.
Kisumu Deputy Governor (DG) Dr Mathew Owili lauded the people of Russia for their endless support in strengthening healthcare services in the Western region.
“This project marks another milestone in deepening Russian-Kenyan relations and underscores the importance of international collaboration in improving the well-being of communities,” he emphasized.
Dr Richard Lesiyampe, JOOTRH CEO said the modern kitchen will tremendously assist in the nutritional recovery of patients.
“The first medicine we give our patients is food and this new face-lift will reduce the health dangers posed by fossil fuel use. It will create a safer and more conducive working environment for our kitchen staff,” he said.
JOOTRH further received an initial 89,500 medical supplies from the Russian government.
The event was also graced by Dr Lusi the Chief Officer for Medical Service and Public Health and Sanitation, and the JOOTRH Management.
“The facility will offer a variety of specialized diet needs for patients with specific medical conditions.” Dr Lesiyampee remarked.
