Meru: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has launched a project that will see Meru Level Five Hospital upgraded to a Level Six status. Speaking at the hospital in North Imenti Constituency while officiating the groundbreaking ceremony, the DP who was flanked by Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma, his deputy Linda Kiome, area MP Rahim Dawood and other leaders, said the plan was to see the hospital attain Level six status before the next general elections.
According to Kenya News Agency, the upgrade of the hospital will benefit residents from several counties who usually seek medical services at the facility. "Our aspiration was for this hospital to get support from the national government so that we can have adequate facilities. This hospital does not only serve Meru; it is a regional hospital," said Professor Kindiki. He emphasized the importance of the hospital for patients from Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, Laikipia, and Marsabit counties, highlighting its significance for the Upper Eastern Region.
He added that the realisation of the project was as a result of lobbying and requests by area leaders who presented their request to President William Ruto. The DP noted that the county government was expected to hand over the hospital to the national government, where it will be run as a parastatal. "The upgrading of the hospital is a very consequential achievement for this region and we are working day and night to actualise the directive of the President," said Kindiki.
He further stated that they were collaborating with the Governor Mutuma administration, the Ministry of Health, and regulators in the sector to ensure that the necessary facilities, human resources, and other requirements for the elevation are put in place. The goal is to have the hospital upgraded before the next election cycle.