Governor Fernandes Barasa’s administration has handed over the stalled Ksh10 billion Kakamega County Teaching and Referral Hospital project and the Bukhungu Stadium which has been under construction for years to the state.
Barasa confirmed that the level six referral hospital is now a national government facility, following discussions with President William Ruto during a visit to South Korea.
“Our Members of County Assembly passed a resolution to transfer the Level Six hospital to the national government,” Barasa said.
“The transition was delayed due to the change in regime, but after my conversation with the President in Korea, we agreed he would take up and complete both the hospital and Bukhungu International Stadium,” he added.
Barasa argued that while other counties prioritize sparing money, his administration is investing in significant projects.
Ruto’s Government on Kakamega Hospital
Back on June 18 last year, President William Ruto had affirmed that he will work with leaders from across the political divide as he promised a Ksh200 million grant to Kakamega Referral Hospital.
Ruto said he had no problem working closely with leaders, including those from the opposition, to spur national development.
“Currently, I don’t have money, but I will get you Sh200 million in the Supplementary Budget in October and give you to finish that hospital,” the President said.
Earlier in April this year, Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha had reaffirmed support for the completion of the Kakamega Teaching and Referral Hospital whose construction stalled years ago.
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Speaking at the Butere Sub County Hospital on Friday, April 5, 2024, the Health CS emphasized the importance of unity among Western leaders for the hospital’s completion.
Hand Over Plan
Governor Barasa emphasized that as they review the 2024/2025 budget, discussions with the County Executive Committee Member of Sports are ongoing to ensure a proper handover.
The national government aims to complete Bukhungu by December 2026, making it a regional project alongside the Level Six hospital, which will serve the Lake Region.
Two years ago, the county assembly unanimously passed a motion to transfer the hospital to the national government.
During the debate, MCAs noted that residents in the county supported the plan, advocating that the funds earmarked for the hospital should improve other health facilities.
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The initial phase of the hospital was in the region of Ksh4.5 billion, with Ksh2.5 billion having been spent so far and another Ksh2 billion needed for the equipment.
However, the 750-bed project stalled three years ago when the contractor, China Railway Jiangsu Engineering (East Africa), abandoned it in February 2020 due to unpaid dues.
Barasa said the Level Six hospital will be a game-changer, creating jobs and providing affordable, quality healthcare.
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