Cabinet clears hospital projects in Bungoma, Kericho to boost UHC rollout
The Cabinet approved the construction of two new Level VI teaching and referral hospitals in Bungoma and Kericho counties.
To enhance healthcare access across underserved regions, the Cabinet, chaired by President William Ruto on Tuesday, has approved the construction of two new Level VI teaching and referral hospitals in Bungoma and Kericho counties.
This initiative, as indicated in the cabinet despatch is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Kenyans, with support from the African Development Bank.
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The decision to build the hospitals is aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure in counties that have long faced challenges in accessing advanced medical services.
These hospitals will help meet the growing demand for specialised treatment and contribute to expanding quality healthcare services across the country.
Earlier this month, Cabinet Secretary for Defence Aden Duale confirmed that 21.3 million Kenyans are now receiving free primary healthcare services at public and contracted private healthcare facilities.
These services are available at all public Level 2-4 facilities, including dispensaries, health centres, and sub-county hospitals, as well as contracted private and faith-based facilities.
Duale also highlighted that the government’s healthcare programme has improved compared to the previous National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).
Health benefits package
The expanded health benefits package now includes services such as ICU care, cancer treatment, surgeries, and maternity services, which were not widely covered before.
“We will keep improving the benefit package until we weed out all medical harambees in WhatsApp groups in our country,” he added.
In October 2024, President William Ruto reiterated his commitment to UHC, assuring Kenyans that the programme, which began earlier in the month, would eventually overcome any initial hurdles.
“It is the biggest programme we have in the country. It may take time for things to align, but believe you me – it is going to work,” the President said, underlining the government’s commitment to ensuring that every Kenyan has access to healthcare.
The President also noted that the introduction of UHC under the Social Health Authority (SHA) aims to make medical coverage available to all Kenyans, irrespective of their financial status.
In the past, healthcare was mainly accessible to those in formal employment or those who could afford private insurance, but UHC is set to change that, providing medical care for all.
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