By Alloys Musyoka
The upgrade, which was carried out in February of this year by Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani alongside President William Ruto, marked a significant milestone in enhancing access to essential surgical services in the region.
In previous years, patients requiring surgery had to travel long distances to access treatment in distant health facilities, such as in Kwale, Kinango, Msambweni, or even Coast General Hospital in Mombasa.
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani states that Mkongani is among five health facilities in Kwale County that have recently been upgraded to Level 4 status, along with others, including Kwale, Samburu, Kinango, and Lungalunga Sub-County hospitals.
“Upgrading our health facilities is not just about buildings; it’s about saving lives, empowering communities, and bringing essential services closer to the people,” said Achani.
Since its upgrade, Mkongani Sub-County Hospital has already served more than 11,000 residents in the region, with over 27 successful surgeries conducted so far.
“We are committed to ensuring that quality, accessible, and dignified healthcare services are a reality for every resident of Kwale County,” Achani added.
Mkongani Sub-County Medical Superintendent Beatrice Chaka noted that the hospital now offers inpatient services, theatre operations, specialized clinics such as gynecology, and care for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
“The upgrade of the Mkongani Sub County Hospital has brought a significant impact to the residents of this area as far as critical services are concerned. We are happy that the construction of an X-ray block is underway, and we hope that the residents will enjoy fluency health services here,” said Beatrice.
Shaban Mohammed and Suleiman Konerwa, both residents, have been battling hydrocele. Konerwa shared how his condition was misunderstood by the community.
“Some people thought that my condition was a result of witchcraft. These misconceptions made it even harder for me to survive in such an environment. I thank God that the condition has been resolved,” said Konerwa.
Expectant mothers in the area also faced major struggles in the past. Purity Muia and Rose Koplo explained how women needing surgical intervention during delivery had to be referred to far-off facilities.
“Previously, if you couldn’t deliver normally, you were referred to Msambweni, and some women didn’t make it, and in the process, either the baby or the mother hardly survived,” said Muia.
Under Governor Achani’s leadership, Kwale County has constructed and equipped 178 health facilities and hired 1,800 medical professionals to improve healthcare access across the region.
