Makueni County Referral Hospital has taken a major step toward improving specialised healthcare after receiving a wide range of advanced surgical and diagnostic equipment under the National Equipment Service Programme. The initiative, implemented in partnership with county governments, aims to strengthen hospital capacity and reduce the need for patient referrals to distant facilities.
Mutula Kilonzo Jr. officially commissioned the equipment at the hospital, describing the upgrade as a turning point for healthcare delivery in the county. According to the governor, the new machines will significantly enhance service quality, reduce surgical waiting times, and allow more complex procedures to be handled locally.
New equipment strengthens surgical and diagnostic services
The consignment includes modern theatre and diagnostic machines designed to support both routine and complex medical procedures. Among the key additions is a modern diathermy monopolar unit, which uses high-frequency electric currents to cut or coagulate tissue during surgery. This technology helps minimise blood loss and improves surgical precision.
The hospital has also received infusion pumps, advanced operating tables and lights, anesthesia machines, patient monitors for theatre and transit use, and traction beds tailored for orthopaedic care. Together, these tools expand the hospital’s ability to conduct safe and efficient surgeries across multiple disciplines.
Operating theatres double from two to four
One of the most immediate impacts of the equipment upgrade is the expansion of operating theatres at the facility. The hospital has increased its theatres from two to four, a change that directly addresses long-standing surgical backlogs.
Governor Mutula recalled that during a medical outreach programme last year, some patients waited up to a week to undergo surgery. With the expanded theatre capacity, the hospital expects to shorten waiting periods and improve patient outcomes.
He emphasised that the machines are of high quality and will be operated by trained medical professionals. According to the governor, the combination of modern equipment and skilled staff positions the hospital to deliver safer and more reliable care.
Counties benefit from shared national programme
During the commissioning ceremony, the governor praised the National Equipment Service Programme, noting that many counties struggle to purchase such specialised machines due to limited budgets. He said the programme offers counties a practical solution by easing the financial burden associated with acquiring high-end medical equipment.
As a result, Makueni County can now invest more resources in staffing, power supply, blood services, and supporting infrastructure rather than spending heavily on equipment procurement.
Reduced referrals and improved local care
With the new machines in place, the county government expects a sharp reduction in patient referrals to hospitals outside Makueni. Governor Mutula said the facility now has the capacity to manage most medical and surgical cases locally.
He added that while the equipment is currently stationed at the county referral hospital, plans are in place to distribute some machines to level four hospitals and other health facilities across the county as capacity grows.
“This hospital is now a true referral centre,” he said, stressing that with reliable power, trained personnel, and modern technology, patients will no longer need to travel long distances for specialised care.
Digital imaging and minimally invasive surgery capabilities
The hospital has also strengthened its diagnostic services through a digital X-ray system that replaces traditional film with electronic detectors. The system converts images into digital files within minutes, enabling faster diagnosis and improved patient flow. Hospital officials noted that the facility handles between 70 and 80 X-ray patients daily, making the upgrade especially impactful.
In addition, the hospital now operates an integrated workstation for minimally invasive surgeries. The system features high-resolution 4K UHD cameras, monitors, oxygen insufflators, and suction systems. These tools enhance surgical precision, improve visual clarity, and increase comfort for surgeons during procedures.
Hospital leadership welcomes the upgrade
Hospital management expressed optimism that the new equipment will ease congestion and improve efficiency. Alex Ombati, a consultant general surgeon and endoscopist at the facility, said the upgrades will allow the hospital to manage more complex cases without unnecessary referrals.
He explained that local treatment not only saves patients time and money but also improves continuity of care. As capacity grows, the hospital expects better outcomes and higher patient satisfaction.
County officials attend commissioning
Several county leaders attended the commissioning ceremony, including Joyce Mutua and Harvey Mulei Mbithi. Their presence underscored the county government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services and ensuring residents access quality treatment close to home.
With the new equipment now operational, Makueni County Referral Hospital enters a new phase as a regional healthcare hub capable of delivering advanced surgical and diagnostic services.
