Kakamega County to Benefit from Improved Healthcare Services as National Government Allocates Sh50 Million for Malava Hospital
The project is among several health infrastructure developments being undertaken across Kakamega County in partnership with the national government aimed at improving health indicators in the region
Governor Barasa launches KSH.50 million facelift of Malava Hospital. Photo: county government of Kakamega
By Linda Olendo
Residents of Malava Constituency in Kakamega County are set to benefit from improved healthcare services after the national government allocated Sh50 million for the rehabilitation and upgrade of Malava Level 4 Hospital.
The project, which was officially launched this week, is expected to enhance service delivery and expand access to quality healthcare for thousands of residents once completed later this year.
Speaking during the launch of the project, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Baraza said the funding reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services at the grassroots level and bringing medical services closer to the people.
According to the Governor, the funds will be used to rehabilitate existing infrastructure, equip the facility with modern medical equipment, expand the inpatient and outpatient wings, and improve maternity and laboratory services.
“Our people have for long travelled far to access specialized treatment. With this upgrade, Malava Level 4 Hospital will be able to handle more cases, reduce congestion at the Kakamega County General Hospital, and ensure our mothers and children get quality care near their homes,” Governor Baraza said.
Baraza noted that the county government will work closely with the national government to ensure timely completion of the project and accountability in the use of funds. He added that the county has also prioritized recruitment of additional health workers to be deployed to the facility upon completion.
The launch ceremony was attended by hundreds of residents, county officials, health workers, and national government administration officers who welcomed the move, saying it was long overdue.
Residents who spoke at the event expressed optimism that the upgrade will address challenges such as lack of drugs, inadequate bed capacity and shortage of specialized doctors that have previously forced them to seek services in private facilities.
The Governor also urged residents to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA) to enable them to access affordable healthcare once the facility is upgraded.
He reiterated that his administration remains committed to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through investment in infrastructure, provision of essential drugs and strengthening of primary healthcare.
Once complete, Malava Level 4 Hospital is expected to serve not only residents of Malava but also neighboring sub-counties, easing pressure on other sub-county hospitals.
The project is among several health infrastructure developments being undertaken across Kakamega County in partnership with the national government aimed at improving health indicators in the region
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