MERU, Kenya — Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr Ouma Oluga has called for the timely and quality completion of the Sh1 billion upgrade of Meru Level 5 Hospital, saying the project must deliver tangible improvements in healthcare services for residents of Meru and the wider region.
Oluga made the remarks during an inspection tour of the ongoing works, emphasising that the success of the National Government-funded project would ultimately be measured by its impact on patients and healthcare providers.
The upgrade is expected to significantly expand the hospital’s capacity, including the addition of 360 beds and eight modern surgical theatres, alongside advanced diagnostic equipment and additional specialised medical services.
“Once completed, the upgraded facility will accommodate more patients, reduce congestion and waiting times, and bring specialised healthcare services closer to residents,” Oluga said.
He added that the expanded facility would reduce the burden on families who currently travel outside Meru County to seek specialised treatment.
“It will also reduce the transport and related costs incurred by families seeking treatment outside the county,” he said.
Expanded capacity and specialised care
The project is part of the government’s broader investment in healthcare infrastructure aimed at strengthening referral services and expanding access to specialised treatment outside Nairobi.
The additional beds are expected to increase the hospital’s ability to manage patient demand, while the new surgical theatres will provide capacity for more complex procedures.
The installation of advanced diagnostic equipment is also expected to strengthen the hospital’s ability to detect and manage a wider range of medical conditions locally.
For residents, the expanded services could reduce referrals to facilities outside the county and shorten the distance patients and their families have to travel for treatment.
Economic and training benefits
Beyond healthcare, the investment is expected to generate economic opportunities through employment and increased demand for goods and services from local businesses during and after the construction phase.
The expanded facility is also expected to create opportunities for medical training, research and innovation, strengthening Meru’s role as a regional healthcare and training centre.
Oluga said maintaining quality standards and completing the works within the required timelines would be critical to ensuring residents receive the intended benefits of the investment.
The inspection brought together officials from both levels of government, highlighting the need for continued coordination as the project progresses.
Those present included Meru County Chief of Staff Harun Abuana; County Executive Committee Member for Health Services Dr Dennis Mugambi; Chief Officer for Health Services Dr Koome Muthuri; Director of Medical Services Dr Kanake Kaumbuki; Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr Bernard Murithi; and Meru County Commissioner George Omollo, among other national and county government officials.
