Murang’a – In Murang’a County, the government has recently inaugurated new general wards at Maragua and Kandara Level-4 hospitals, significantly enhancing local healthcare capabilities. The new facilities, with a combined capacity of 50 beds, are designed to alleviate patient congestion and reduce the need for residents to seek treatment at distant health centers. During the launch on Sunday, County Governor Irungu Kang’ata emphasized the significance of the 20-bed ward at Bildad Kagia hospital in Kandara, noting the relief it brings to patients who previously had to travel to Murang’a Level-5 hospital or facilities in Kiambu County for in-patient services. He stated that this addition would greatly benefit over 300,000 residents of Kandara sub-county.

According to Kenya News Agency, the 30-bed ward in Maragua hospital will address the overcrowding issue in the facility, which caters to several sub-counties. He highlighted the commitment of the county government in improving medical service quality across all health facilities in the region. The new wards are expected to enhance medical services for local residents, enabling more admissions for treatment within the community, instead of referrals to distant health facilities.

The governor also announced plans to allocate more funds for the renovation of Maragua hospital, acknowledging the need for urgent improvements in its infrastructure, including the expansion of theater and maternity wards. Additionally, Kang’ata launched the distribution of computers and beddings to all medical facilities in the county to improve service delivery and monitor drug dispensation. Murang’a Level 5 hospital has already implemented digital operations, with computerized patient records.

Kang’ata further mentioned ongoing construction and renovation works in other health facilities, projecting that by the end of the current financial year, several hospitals will have new infrastructure, including general wards, casualty units, maternity wards, and theaters.

Lina Gakera, the medic in charge of Bildad Kagia hospital, reported that the facility handles nearly 4,000 out-patients monthly and over 120 maternity cases. She expressed relief that the new wards will reduce the need to refer patients requiring admission to Murang’a Level 5 hospital or Thika health facilities.

Local residents, while appreciative of the project, urged the county administration to ensure consistent drug availability in the hospital, as they often have to purchase prescribed medications from private chemists.