Moi County Referral Hospital in Taita Taveta is poised for a significant upgrade as part of a new national initiative to improve healthcare services across Kenya. The government has announced plans to equip the facility with state-of-the-art medical technologies under the revamped National Equipment Services Program, aimed at addressing long-standing service delivery gaps in the public health system.
During a recent inspection tour of the hospital, the Health Cabinet Secretary emphasized the importance of modernizing key departments to meet growing healthcare demands. Among the equipment earmarked for Moi County Referral Hospital are Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines, digital X-ray units, dialysis machines, and fully functional surgical theatres. This investment is expected to enhance diagnostic and treatment capabilities, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care.
The upgrade comes as part of a broader strategy to digitize and streamline healthcare services nationwide. In Taita Taveta County, 371 digital devices have already been received, and 206 healthcare workers have been trained to operate the new systems. These devices will be deployed to all public health facilities across the county to ensure efficient service delivery, data management, and patient tracking.
The digital transformation also supports the government’s crackdown on healthcare fraud. With the integration of digital monitoring tools, the Ministry of Health is better positioned to detect malpractice and identify unqualified practitioners operating within the system. Already, more than 1,000 non-compliant health facilities have been closed in recent months, reflecting the government’s tough stance on quality control and accountability.
In addition to equipment upgrades and digitization, the Health Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to resolving persistent human resource challenges in the sector. Improving healthcare worker conditions and resolving disputes are seen as vital components of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda. The government aims to create a more stable, motivated, and professional healthcare workforce as part of its long-term health reform strategy.
The Cabinet Secretary was joined on the hospital tour by key national and county leaders, including the Taita Taveta Governor, Deputy Governor, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, and top health ministry officials. Their presence signaled strong collaboration between national and county governments, which is essential for the successful implementation of health sector reforms.
With the rollout of the new National Equipment Services Program and the digitization drive, residents of Taita Taveta can expect improved access to quality healthcare services. The reforms mark a significant step toward achieving a more efficient, equitable, and responsive health system for all Kenyans.
