Uasin gishu: Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has officially launched the construction of a new 2000-bed capacity Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Kiplombe area, Soy Sub County. The new referral hospital is set to become a quaternary facility, providing the highest level of specialized medical care for complex conditions, surpassing what tertiary care facilities offer.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project, which costs over Sh 50 billion, will initially accommodate 2000 patients, with potential expansion to 4000 beds in the next phase. During the groundbreaking ceremony attended by leaders and health stakeholders, CS Duale noted that the project, conceptualized in 2014, was ten years late. He assured Kenyans of its completion in 18 months under the Ministry of Defense’s supervision.
The Ministry of Defense plays a crucial role in national infrastructure projects, leveraging its engineering competencies for timely completion and quality control. CS Duale highlighted the project’s significance for the national health ecosystem, describing it as one of Kenya’s most transformative healthcare investments. He emphasized the facility’s potential to strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional health hub and reduce medical tourism by providing world-class treatment locally.
CS Duale also praised the hospital as a model for integrated care, offering advanced treatment in various medical fields. He stated that the services would be linked to primary and secondary care through a robust referral, digital health, and supply chain system, advancing UHC by ensuring patients receive appropriate care without financial hardships.
Defense PS Dr. Patrick Mariru, speaking on behalf of the CS defense, affirmed the ministry’s commitment to deliver the project within the specified 18-month timeline. MTRH CEO Dr. Philip Kirwa stated that the new facility would enhance their current capacity and position Eldoret City as a center for world-class medical care in Africa.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Chelilim Bii described the project as transformational, noting its potential to create thousands of jobs and business opportunities. Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich supported the project and proposed a telemedicine center to assist neighboring counties. Soy MP David Kiplagat highlighted the economic impact, stating it as the largest hospital project in Africa, creating around 20,000 local jobs and new access roads.
