(Kwale) – Kwale County is making significant strides in improving its healthcare system, with Governor Fatuma Achani leading efforts to upgrade facilities and deliver quality services directly to residents. Speaking during a tour of Kasemeni Ward in Kinango Sub County, Governor Achani outlined her administration’s progress and plans in transforming healthcare infrastructure and services in the region.
Before devolution in 2013, Kwale had only 35 health centres. Today, the number has grown to 178 facilities spread across the sub-counties of Matuga, Msambweni, Kinango, Samburu, Shimba Hills, and Lunga Lunga. These facilities are supported by 1,800 healthcare workers and 1,632 community health promoters trained to offer maternal and newborn health services in rural and underserved areas.
The Governor recently inaugurated the Bonje Dispensary in Mwamdudu village, Kasemeni Ward, marking another milestone in the county’s healthcare initiatives. She emphasized that the county government is committed to increasing healthcare access, especially for those in remote areas.
Among the county’s flagship projects is the new oncology centre at Kwale Sub-County Hospital. This state-of-the-art facility will provide essential cancer treatment services, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances to access care. Governor Achani noted that the oncology centre is part of broader efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure and deliver quality medical services.
Additional upgrades include the construction of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and a Renal Unit at Kinango Sub-County Hospital. These facilities are designed to provide critical care during emergencies and address rising kidney-related health issues.
The Governor highlighted the importance of equipping all healthcare centres with the necessary drugs and equipment to meet the unique needs of rural communities. However, she acknowledged challenges in drug supply due to delays in fund disbursement from the national government, which have caused temporary shortages in some facilities.
During her tour, Governor Achani was joined by County Health Executive Francis Gwama to inspect facilities, assess their current conditions, and identify gaps requiring urgent attention. She reiterated that healthcare remains the top priority of her administration, stressing that the improvements are key to achieving Universal Health Coverage.
Residents have been encouraged to utilize public health facilities, which are being upgraded to ensure affordability and accessibility. The Governor affirmed her administration’s commitment to creating a lasting impact on the health and well-being of Kwale citizens, recognizing the central role of healthcare in societal progress.
Key Developments in Kwale Healthcare
| Facility/Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Health Facilities | Increased from 35 in 2013 to 178 facilities across six sub-counties |
| Healthcare Workforce | 1,800 healthcare workers and 1,632 community health promoters |
| Oncology Centre at Kwale Sub-County Hospital | Offers cancer treatment, reducing need for travel |
| ICU and Renal Unit at Kinango Sub-County Hospital | Provides critical care and addresses kidney-related issues |
| Bonje Dispensary | Inaugurated in Kasemeni Ward for enhanced local services |
Governor Achani called for continued community support, urging residents to prioritize their health and utilize the upgraded facilities in their areas.