Marsabit County has marked a major milestone in strengthening healthcare delivery with the launch of KSh 90 million worth of infrastructure upgrades at the Laisamis Sub-County Hospital.
Governor Mohamud Ali unveiled the projects during a ceremony in Laisamis, describing the investment as a transformative step toward ensuring accessible, modern and reliable medical services for communities in the southern region of the county.
The development constitutes one of the most comprehensive health infrastructure enhancements ever undertaken in Laisamis.
Funded through both the County Government of Marsabit and a partnership with the Safaricom Foundation, the upgrades include the installation of a hospital power plant, a fully equipped surgical theatre, a modern X-ray and diagnostic complex, a dental unit, new male and female wards and newly constructed staff housing units.
In addition, a state-of-the-art maternity complex has been built in collaboration with the Safaricom Foundation, significantly expanding maternal and neonatal care services.
For years, residents of Laisamis Sub-County faced long and often risky journeys to seek essential medical care.
The introduction of a reliable power plant has enabled the hospital to run critical medical equipment without disruption, while the operationalisation of the new theatre has already had a tangible impact.
Over 40 successful cesarean deliveries have been conducted since the facility became functional, drastically reducing referrals to the Marsabit County Teaching and Referral Hospital and improving outcomes for mothers and newborns.
Previously, expectant mothers experiencing complications were routinely transported over long distances to Marsabit town, a journey marked by delays and heightened medical risk.
With the new facilities now in place, such emergencies can be managed locally, restoring confidence in the county’s healthcare system and contributing to safer childbirth experiences.
The newly completed diagnostic and dental units further strengthen the hospital’s capacity to provide a full spectrum of medical services.
The addition of staff housing units reflects a holistic approach to healthcare delivery, ensuring that medical personnel have stable living conditions that support consistent, high-quality service provision.
Officials noted that the upgrades align with Marsabit County’s broader health investment agenda, which seeks to bridge regional disparities, ease pressure on referral facilities and advance universal health coverage.
The Laisamis Sub-County Hospital is expected to serve as a regional hub for surrounding health centres, improving overall system efficiency and expanding access to specialised care.