Residents celebrate improved access to health services as Mkongani is upgraded to Level 4 hospital
The move has already enabled the facility to carry out surgical procedures, easing the burden on patients who previously had to travel as far as Coast General Hospital in Mombasa for treatment.
Hundreds of residents in Mkongani, Matuga Sub-county, now have access to essential health services following the recent upgrade of Mkongani Health Centre to a Level 4 hospital.
The move has already enabled the facility to carry out surgical procedures, easing the burden on patients who previously had to travel as far as Coast General Hospital in Mombasa for treatment.
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Juma Baya, 62, who had suffered from hydrocele for years, was among the first to benefit from the new services.
“I had no choice but to live with the pain because travelling to Mombasa was expensive. I’m now looking forward to undergoing surgery right here,” he said.
Zuwena Mwachia, 59, who manages high blood pressure, said she can now attend monthly check-ups without relying on relatives for transport.
“It used to be a struggle. Now I can walk here and get my medication on time,” she said.
Doctors attend to a patient at Mkongani Health Centre. (Farhiya Hussein)
Expectant mothers have also expressed relief. Mwanasiti Saumu, 27, said the availability of maternity services within Mkongani has improved her access to care during pregnancy.
“In the past, I would miss appointments because of transport costs. But now, the hospital is closer, and I feel more secure during this pregnancy,” she said.
Salim Nyawa, 44, said his wife delivered twins safely at the facility. “We never knew she was carrying two babies until we came here. The hospital has made a real difference for families like mine,” he added.
Medical Superintendent Beatrice Chaka confirmed that, since the upgrade, the hospital has performed 27 surgeries and served over 11,000 patients.
“The introduction of inpatient and theatre services has changed the way we respond to emergencies and chronic conditions,” said Dr Chaka.
“We have also launched specialised clinics for gynaecology, diabetes, and hypertension,” she added.
The expansion is part of a broader health infrastructure plan by the county government.
Governor Fatuma Achani said Mkongani is one of five hospitals upgraded to Level 4 in recent months, alongside facilities in Samburu, Lungalunga, Kwale, and Kinango.
“Our aim is to bring quality healthcare closer to the people,” she said.
Construction of an X-ray block is also underway at the facility, which health officials say will further enhance diagnostic capabilities once completed.
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