The Ministry of Health has unveiled a major milestone in Kenya’s healthcare transformation after activating a Health Management Information System (HMIS) at Balambala Sub-County Hospital in Garissa County.

This achievement makes Balambala the first rural Sub-County hospital in Kenya to be fully digitized, marking a new chapter in the country’s health digitization journey.

The launch, presided over by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale on Saturday, coincided with the conclusion of a three-day free medical and surgical camp organized in partnership with the Garissa County Government and other stakeholders.

According to CS Duale, the reform represents a turning point in rural healthcare.

“Digitization will ensure patient records are secure, improve coordination of care, reduce medical errors, and eliminate quack practices that endanger lives,” he said.

The facility has been equipped with 40 digital devices and 35 trained healthcare workers to support the rollout of digital systems.

This aligns with the government’s broader plan to accelerate Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across all counties through technology-enabled health systems.

During his tour of the newly refurbished Level 4 facility, Duale reaffirmed the government’s dedication to bridging health disparities in marginalized regions.

“No Kenyan, regardless of where they live, should be denied access to quality, affordable, and modern healthcare,” he emphasized.

The camp also advanced Kenya’s health financing reforms under the Social Health Authority (SHA), registering 1,786 residents in Garissa County,about 19% of its population.

In addition, 1,994 patients benefited from free services such as medical consultations, wellness check-ups, and health education.

CS Duale was hosted by Governor Nadhif Jama, Senator Abdul Haji, and Members of Parliament including Hon. Abdi Shurie (Balambala) and Hon. Sala Yakub (Fafi).

This landmark digitization now positions Balambala as a model for rural health innovation in Kenya.