Editor's Review

Residents of Kimbimbi in Kirinyaga County have called on politicians to refrain from using healthcare services as a campaign tool.

Residents of Kimbimbi in Kirinyaga County have called on politicians to refrain from using healthcare services as a campaign tool.

Speaking at Kimbimbi Hospital on Thursday, February 6, locals praised the facility’s services, dismissing claims that it was struggling to provide adequate healthcare. 

Grace Nderitu, a resident seeking treatment at the hospital, commended the institution for its well-maintained facilities, cleanliness, and dedicated staff.  

“I have been coming to this hospital for years, and the services have always been excellent. The facility is well-stocked, and I received all the medication I needed,” she stated.

Nderitu's sentiments were echoed by Joseph Mwangi, who labeled recent criticism of the hospital as politically motivated. 

“People should stop politicizing healthcare. Kimbimbi Hospital has served us well for years, and it continues to provide quality medical services,” he said.  

During an inspection of the hospital, Kirinyaga County Chief Officer for Health Services, Dr. Muriithi Nyaga, reassured residents that Kimbimbi Hospital remains well-equipped to serve patients. 

He noted that the pharmacy is fully stocked, and despite the facility's aging infrastructure, it is well-maintained and clean.

“The hospital serves not only Kirinyaga residents but also patients from neighboring counties like Embu and Murang’a. Its reputation for quality care attracts many seeking medical attention,” he said.

File image of Kimbimbi Hospital

Nyaga also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve healthcare in the county, including the near-completion of a state-of-the-art medical complex at Kimbimbi Hospital.   

The construction of a three-story medical complex, now 80% complete, is expected to be finished by mid-year. 

Once operational, it will upgrade Kimbimbi Hospital from a Level 3 to a Level 4 facility, reducing referrals to Kerugoya County and Referral Hospital.

The new complex will have a 120-bed capacity, adding to the existing 120 beds in the older hospital. 

It will house male and female medical and surgical wards, a maternity unit, a newborn care section, and pediatric wards.

Additionally, the facility will feature an outpatient department designed to serve 300 patients daily, an accident and emergency unit, surgical theaters, radiology and X-ray rooms, a pharmacy, and a laboratory. 

The complex will also include a doctor’s on-call house, office space, and a boardroom to enhance service delivery. 

Governor Anne Waiguru has reaffirmed her commitment to modernizing healthcare in Kirinyaga.

She assured residents that the upgraded Kimbimbi Hospital will be equipped with the latest medical technology and infrastructure.  

“The new facility is part of our broader healthcare transformation agenda aimed at improving access to high-quality medical services across the county,” Governor Waiguru stated.  

The county has already made significant strides in healthcare, including upgrading Kerugoya County and Referral Hospital from Level 4 to Level 5. 

The facility has since become one of the region’s leading healthcare providers.