By Alloys Musyoka
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Mwache Health Center, situated in the Mazeras area of Kasemeni Ward, Samburu Sub-County.
The construction of the health center, which will also include three staff houses, is being undertaken as part of the Ksh 20 billion Mwache Dam project component, expected to offer a significant solution to healthcare challenges faced by residents in the area.
Speaking during the launch of the project, Governor Achani emphasized the County Government of Kwale’s commitment to continued collaboration with the National Government to ensure all proposed projects under the Mwache Dam initiative are successfully implemented.
“This health center project is one of the joint efforts between the County and National Governments to ensure that citizens directly benefit from major national projects such as the Mwache Dam.” Said Achani.
The Kwale County boss further announced the upgrading of the Hospital from being a dispensary to a health center, stating that the facility will enhance healthcare services to the community.
“My administration is committed to ensure that the Kwale County’s health sector receives the support and the resources it needs to deliver quality healthcare services to the County residents,” she added.
Kwale has so far constructed and equipped at least 178 health facilities across the County and employed over 1, 600 health workers across the County.
On his part, the Principal Secretary in the State Department for irrigation in the Ministry of Water, Ephantus Kimotho, stated that the construction of the health center is a strategic component of the Mwache Dam project, aiming to address water shortages and promote social and economic development among communities surrounding the dam.
“We believe that the Mwache Dam project is not just about water, but also about community development, and this health center will be a key pillar in improving the lives of people in this area.” Said Kimotho.
Samuel Gubo, a resident in Mazeras area expressed his gratitude to the County Government of Kwale, stating that the facility will reduce the health costs incurred by the residents who for a long time have been forced to look for health services in long distance hospitals.
“This facility comes as a miracle for our long time prayer of having a health center in our area because we got so many challenges before especially when a resident requires an emergency medical attention at night.” Said Gubo.
The laying of the foundation stone for the Mwache Health Center marks a major step forward in addressing the healthcare needs of the Mazeras community and surrounding areas, with the promise of improved healthcare access, reduced medical costs, and enhanced emergency response.
As the construction moves forward, it stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to uplift community welfare and promote inclusive development in Kwale County.
