By Reporter
Kiunga Health Centre has received face lift and is set to be fully equipped in bid to improve medical service delivery at the Lamu-Ras Kamboni border point
The Lamu County Government has refurbished the Kiunga Health Centre in a bid to improve health service delivery at the country’s border point area.
The initiative is expected to improve access to healthcare for residents and individuals crossing the border area and will address potential health risks associated with cross-border movement and ensuring timely access to medical services.
In a move signaling significant advancements in healthcare for the local community, Speaking during a visit of the health centre Deputy Governor and CECM Health Dr Mbarak Salim stated that the move signals significant advancements and investment on the county government’s part to revolutionize medical services regardless of how far flung the area is within the county
Dr Mbarak further revealed that the county government is set to introduce a number of medical services at the health centre in a bid to cut the travel time and expense residents usually take to undertake essential medical procedures.
“The Radiology Unit is 90% complete, while the Operating Theatre is at 60%,” he announced proudly. “We are determined to operationalize these two crucial projects before March 2026.” he stated.
He further said that area residents have long awaited the establishment of these facilities, with many expressing their gratitude and eagerness for improved healthcare services.
“I have seen friends and family travel for hours just to access basic healthcare services,” shared Aisha Msuo, a local resident in Kiunga who is currently pregnant.
“The idea that we will soon have an operating theatre here means so much to us. It’s a game changer for pregnant mothers, especially those needing a C-section.” she said adding that the long journey to King Fahd Hospital is tedious, and can often be a cause for concern especially when travelling by boat over long distances at sea.
Further speaking on the refurbishment of the health centre which had been dilapidated for years following Kiunga being declared an operation area, Kenya Red Cross Lamu Coordinator Abdulhakim Abdu voiced his support for the move which he said signifies the county’s commitment to ensuring Universal Healthcare Coverage reaches all Lamu residents.
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes,” he said.
“It’s crucial that we come together as a community to enhance healthcare accessibility. The new wards will provide a safe and welcoming environment for mothers and their newborns,” he stated.
“This facility once fully equipped we will no longer face the challenges we normally have. It will not only help us but also our neighbouring country Somalia” Harun Bin Rashid, a community leader in Kiunga further noted.
