Waiguru set to commission Kianyaga Level 4 Hospital, backs Ruto's re-election bid

Waiguru set to commission Kianyaga Level 4 Hospital, backs Ruto's re-election bid

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru is expected to commission the newly completed Kianyaga Level 4 Hospital before the end of the year, as the county government begins equipping the 140-bed medical complex ahead of its operationalisation.

Speaking during an inspection tour to assess the facility's readiness, Waiguru said construction had been completed, with preparations underway to ensure the hospital is fully equipped and ready to receive patients.

The ultra-modern complex will provide a range of medical services, including maternity care, neonatal services, surgery, diagnostic services and emergency treatment. It is designed to serve approximately 300 patients daily.

The facility features a modern maternity wing, a Newborn Unit (NBU), surgical wards, operating theatres and an accident and emergency section.

Waiguru said the project fulfilled a commitment she made to residents during her campaign for a second term as governor, adding that its completion demonstrated her administration's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.

“There could be those who doubted whether I would deliver but you can now see I have delivered the development promise. The hospital is now here for all to see,” she said.

The elevation of Kianyaga Hospital from Level 3 to Level 4 is part of the governor's healthcare transformation programme aimed at strengthening county health facilities and improving access to quality and affordable medical services.

The expanded facility will also offer prenatal and postnatal care, kangaroo mother care, outpatient and inpatient services, as well as diagnostic laboratory services.

Its operationalisation is expected to enhance healthcare provision in the region and reduce referrals to Kerugoya County Referral Hospital by enabling patients to access more specialised services closer to home.

During the inspection, Waiguru also called on Mt Kenya residents to support President William Ruto's bid for a second term in the 2027 General Election, arguing that voters should assess leaders based on their development records rather than political party affiliations.

She said she had assessed the competing political camps and their development agendas ahead of the elections and believed Ruto's administration had the interests of the Mt Kenya region at heart.

The governor also reiterated her interest in becoming Ruto's running mate in 2027, saying her experience in public service and leadership had prepared her for a bigger national role.

Having served two terms as Kirinyaga governor, Waiguru said she wanted to take on greater responsibilities and contribute to addressing the country's challenges.

“I have finished my two terms and now I want to go up. I believe I have the qualifications and experience required to help navigate some of the challenges facing the country,” she said.

Her Deputy President ambitions received backing from Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami and Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari, who endorsed her bid for the country's second-highest office.

Mukami described Waiguru as a tested leader, saying her experience in public administration made her suitable for the position.

“My Deputy President candidate for 2027 is Anne Waiguru. She is tested and proven,” Mukami said, urging voters to support one of their own for the position.

The Nyeri legislator also called for greater representation of women in the country's top leadership, noting that no woman had previously served as President despite women making up a significant proportion of the population.