Following last weeks action of the Cabinet to elevate Bungoma District Hospital to a Level 6 Teaching and Referral Hospital, placing it in the same league as Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, residents of Western region and its environs are now set to benefit from further improved access to healthcare services.
The elevation of the facility now places it under the National Government, translating to installation of ultramodern equipment, better staffing, and access to specialised care.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula lauded the move as a game changer.
“Our people will no longer have to travel to Eldoret for treatment. Quality healthcare is coming closer to home,” he said.
He also urged Kibabii University to seize the opportunity by developing a comprehensive medical program to support the growing health sector in the region.
Echoing the Speaker’s sentiments, Bungoma Senator David Wakoli called the elevation “a transformative step that will change the lives of our people.”
In what has been billed as bold move to end systemic delays and injustices around the issuance of national identity cards, Speaker Wetang’ula notified the congregation of the governments recent decision to scrap unofficial fees and discriminatory practices often levelled on those seeking the crucial document.
“Every Kenyan deserves an ID, that is a right, not a favour,” Wetang’ula stated. Moving forward, all Form Four students will receive ID cards before exiting school.
Recognising the long-standing frustrations of farmers in the region, particularly in the coffee sector, Wetang’ula affirmed that the County Government will restructure factory leadership to protect farmers from exploitation.
“We will place power back into the hands of those who till the land,” he said.
Senator Wakoli supported the call, noting that “coffee farmers have been defrauded by corrupt cooperatives for too long. We must remove these bad actors and help our people reclaim their livelihoods.”
MP John Makali welcomed the Cabinet’s decision to uplift the county hospital and took the opportunity to call for peace and security across the country. He urged a reshuffle within the police service and the return of active community patrols to restore public trust and safety.
