Nyamira County Plans Expansion of Renal Services Across Sub Counties

Nyamira: Governor Amos Nyaribo has announced that Nyamira County will establish renal units in sub-county hospitals to provide dialysis services closer to residents and alleviate congestion at the County Referral Hospital. Speaking at Nyamira Referral Hospital during the launch of a new dialysis unit with additional machines at Doctor’s Plaza, Governor Nyaribo encouraged individuals with kidney health issues to utilize the available resources.

According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Nyaribo commissioned 10 dialysis machines for Nyamira Referral Hospital and revealed plans to procure 30 more. Of these, 10 machines will be assigned to Keroka Sub County Hospital, 10 to Ekerenyo Sub County Hospital, and the remaining 10 will stay at Nyamira Referral Hospital. Prior to this, Nyamira had only 3 dialysis machines, but the number will increase to 23, given the hospital’s role in serving patients from neighboring counties.

Governor Nyaribo urged patients with renal complications to seek treatment to manage the condition affecting people of all ages. The newly launched machines at Nyamira Referral Hospital will allow health practitioners to conduct 26 dialysis sessions daily. The renal unit has been relocated from general wards to a new site equipped with a nursing station and other essential amenities.

Governor Nyaribo committed to purchasing more dialysis reagents and hiring additional medical staff to maintain quality and efficiency. He encouraged patients not to lose hope, as dialysis can prolong lives while awaiting a kidney transplant.

Patient Joseph Omwando expressed relief that extended wait times for dialysis will be reduced. Previously, patients had to arrive as early as 4:00 AM to secure a spot due to limited machines. Omwando appreciated the governor’s initiative to add machines and plans to expand services to sub-county facilities, which will eliminate the need to travel to Nyamira for critical dialysis services.

Another patient, Julius Bosire, shared his past struggles of traveling to Nairobi for dialysis, noting that receiving treatment closer to home is more cost-effective. Dr. Jared Oeba, County Director for Medical Services, confirmed the county’s investment in training two renal clinicians to provide specialized care for patients, positioning Nyamira’s renal unit as a key resource for the region.

The Governor was joined by County Executive Committee Members, including Dr. Donald Mogoi for health and CPA Emilly Ongaga for education, along with other officials and guests.