MoH Deletes CT Scanner Launch Post After Public Backlash Over Bungoma Hospital Event
Following the backlash, the Ministry removed the post, in what appeared to be an effort to contain reputational damage and ease public discontent.
A poster of the CT Scan launch by Health CS Duale and Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka. Photo/ Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has deleted a social media post announcing the planned commissioning of a Computed Tomography (CT) scanner at Bungoma County Referral Hospital following a wave of criticism from Kenyans online.
The now-deleted post, shared on the Ministry’s official X account, promoted an event scheduled for April 16 and featured an AI-generated poster depicting Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale alongside Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka. The announcement was intended to highlight progress in healthcare infrastructure and collaboration between national and county governments.
However, the post quickly drew sharp reactions, with many Kenyans questioning the need for a high-profile launch of what they described as a basic medical requirement.
“CT scan machine in a County Referral Hospital is not a landmark achievement. It is a basic requirement,” said James Nzioka, adding that celebrating such an installation in 2026 was “akin to a transport ministry holding a national gala because they finally bought a spare tire for a bus.”
Other critics pointed to the cost implications of the planned event, arguing that public resources could have been better utilized. “The cost of fuel for ‘fuel guzzlers,’ security detail, and travel allowances for a high-level delegation could likely have stocked the same hospital’s pharmacy with essential drugs for months,” another user wrote.
Medical professionals also weighed in, questioning both the timing and messaging of the announcement.
“Announcing in 2026 that a county referral hospital didn’t have a CT scan, and then using it as a campaign strategy, is concerning,” said Dr. Rowena in a post online.
Further criticism emerged after claims that the CT scanner had already been delivered and handed over to the facility on March 26 in the presence of hospital officials. “Why then do we need yet another ceremony? To celebrate the same so-called ‘achievement’?” posed Ruth Kalande.
Concerns were also raised about the sustainability of such projects beyond public ceremonies. “When the fanfare dies down… who ensures that the machine continues running?” asked Robert Gachugu, emphasizing the need for consistent service delivery over symbolic events.
Following the backlash, the Ministry removed the post, in what appeared to be an effort to contain reputational damage and ease public discontent.
Despite the controversy, the incident has reignited broader debate حول priorities in the health sector, with many Kenyans calling for a stronger focus on functionality, accountability, and improved service delivery rather than ceremonial milestones.
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