Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa inspects oxygen cylinders at Kakamega County Referral Hospital on August 28, 2024. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has announced that Butere Level Four Hospital which is undergoing renovation will be commissioned in November.

The governor said the facility will boost healthcare services to residents.

Speaking during a tour of the facility, Barasa said this was part of his administration's broader strategy to revitalise the health sector.

"The Butere Level Four Hospital is a cornerstone of our plan to revitalise the health sector. It represents our commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that quality medical services are accessible to all residents,” he said. 

The governor revealed that plans are underway to upgrade other health facilities across the region.

"Similar upgrades are being planned for health facilities across the region to ensure comprehensive improvement in our healthcare system," he said.

Barasa noted that Butere Level Four Hospital is part of his six strategic pillars for transforming Kakamega county, which include improving healthcare infrastructure.

He announced plans to refurbish the planning offices within the hospital precincts. 

“These offices will be converted into the sub-county headquarters, enhancing administrative efficiency and service delivery,” said Barasa.

He said plans are underway to relocate training activities from the Butere County Polytechnic block to a new, spacious facility being constructed in Emurwa village. 

“These strategies will create a comprehensive health and training hub in Butere,” Barasa said.

Barasa explained that the new hospital will not only be a provider of quality healthcare but also a centre for medical education, benefiting residents and future healthcare professionals.

The governor also gave an update on the status of Kakamega Level-6 Hospital, which is set to expand to a 750-bed capacity with the support of the National Government. 

Barasa was accompanied by County Secretary Lawrence Omuhaka, and Chief Officers David Alila (Health Services) and Doreen Amwoga (County Administration).