Mombasa, 4th September 2025 The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services paid a working visit to the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH) to assess progress in strengthening specialized healthcare services and to interact with frontline health workers.
The visit focused on inspecting newly established and upgraded facilities that are expanding access to advanced medical care in the Coast region. Among the facilities toured were the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, the Paediatric Accident and Emergency Centre, the Newborn Unit, and the Cancer Radiotherapy Centre. These centres mark a significant milestone in improving the hospital’s capacity to offer life-saving interventions and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized treatment.
At the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, the Principal Secretary was briefed on how the facility is enhancing the management of heart-related conditions through minimally invasive procedures, reducing risks and improving recovery outcomes. The Paediatric Accident and Emergency Centre was highlighted as a critical unit for timely response to child emergencies, while the Newborn Unit continues to play a vital role in reducing neonatal mortality rates. The Cancer Radiotherapy Centre, on the other hand, is offering hope to many patients who previously had to seek radiotherapy services in Nairobi or abroad.
During the tour, the Principal Secretary also took the opportunity to engage with Community Health Promoters (CHPs). He recognized their central role in primary healthcare delivery, particularly in advancing the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda. CHPs are instrumental in providing preventive and promotive health services at the community level, linking households with healthcare facilities, and creating awareness on health-seeking behaviors.
The hospital’s leadership accompanied the Principal Secretary during the inspection, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services. The collaboration between medical specialists, facility managers, and policymakers is seen as critical in sustaining the momentum of healthcare reforms in the country.
The visit underscored the government’s continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and human resources aimed at bridging gaps in specialized care. It also reinforced the importance of community health as a foundation for a resilient health system.
By strengthening both specialized hospital services and community-based health delivery, the Ministry of Health is moving closer to its goal of providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all citizens under the UHC framework.
