President William Ruto has pledged Sh500 million to complete and equip Ziwa Level V Hospital in Soy Constituency, describing the project as critical to expanding specialised healthcare across the North Rift.

The President made the commitment on Tuesday during an inspection of the ongoing construction works at the facility.

“We are allocating Sh500 million to ensure this hospital is completed and fully equipped so that our people can access specialised care without travelling long distances,” President Ruto disclosed.

“This is part of our broader commitment to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and bring advanced medical services closer to the people,” remarked the head of state.

The 400-bed hospital is expected to serve as a key referral centre for Uasin Gishu and neighbouring counties. It will ease pressure on Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and other facilities in the region.

Once completed, the hospital will have five operating theatres, 12 Intensive Care Unit beds and 12 High Dependency Unit beds. It will also include laboratories, maternity, dental and diagnostic units, as well as a physiotherapy and rehabilitation centre.

“The expanded capacity will strengthen the management of complex medical conditions, improve emergency response and enhance access to surgical, maternal and diagnostic services,” the President added.

Area Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim welcomed the pledge.

“This is a major milestone for our people,” Governor Chelilim said.

“Completing and equipping Ziwa Level V Hospital will significantly strengthen healthcare delivery and bring specialised services closer to residents of Uasin Gishu and the wider North Rift,” remarked a visibly delighted Governor.

Officials who spoke at the event said the facility will help decentralise specialised care, strengthen the referral system and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for advanced treatment.

Senior national and county government officials accompanied the President during the inspection to assess progress on the project.

By Maurice Aluda