Bungoma Hospital elevated to Level 6, promising healthcare revolution for Western Kenya

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has lauded the Cabinet’s decision to elevate Bungoma District Hospital to a Level 6 Teaching and Referral Hospital, placing it on par with Kenyatta National Hospital. This move promises a revolution in healthcare access for Western Kenya and its surrounding areas, bringing specialized medical services closer to home.

The elevation means that Bungoma’s premier healthcare institution will now fall under the purview of the National Government, paving the way for substantial investments in state-of-the-art medical equipment, enhanced staffing, and the provision of a wider range of specialized medical services. Residents of the region will no longer face the burden of long journeys to Eldoret or even Nairobi to access advanced treatment.

“Our people will no longer have to travel to Eldoret for treatment. Quality healthcare is coming closer to home,” Speaker Wetang’ula declared. Recognizing the potential for growth in the healthcare sector, he also urged Kibabii University to proactively develop comprehensive medical programs to support the evolving needs of the region.

Echoing the Speaker’s enthusiasm, Bungoma Senator David Wakoli described the elevation as “a transformative step that will change the lives of our people.” The upgrade is expected to significantly improve health outcomes and reduce the financial and logistical burdens associated with seeking specialized medical care far from home.

Beyond healthcare advancements, Speaker Wetang’ula addressed other critical issues affecting Bungoma residents. In a move aimed at eradicating systemic inefficiencies and injustices, he announced the government’s recent decision to abolish unofficial fees and discriminatory practices associated with the issuance of national identity cards. “Every Kenyan deserves an ID; that is a right, not a favour,” he asserted, further stating that all Form Four students will now receive their ID cards before completing their secondary education.

Acknowledging the persistent challenges faced by farmers, particularly in the coffee sector, Speaker Wetang’ula pledged that the County Government would restructure the leadership of coffee factories to safeguard farmers from exploitation. “We will place power back into the hands of those who till the land,” he affirmed.

Senator Wakoli strongly supported this initiative, emphasizing 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.”

Hon. John Makali also welcomed the Cabinet’s decision regarding the hospital’s elevation and seized the opportunity to address the critical need for peace and security nationwide. He called for a reshuffle within the police service and the reinstatement of active community patrols to rebuild public trust and ensure the safety of all citizens.