Mpukoni Health Centre in Tharaka Nithi County is set to benefit from infrastructural development worth Sh45 million to attain the status of a Level Four hospital.
The enormous infrastructural development started by the laying of a foundation stone for a new maternity wing and an outpatient block will tremendously improve delivery of quality healthcare services to the Residents of Magumoni Ward.
The Sh45 million project is being implemented through a partnership between the County Government of Tharaka Nithi and the Safaricom Foundation. The facility is set to be upgraded into a Level Four hospital.
Mr. Patrick Mburu, representing the Safaricom Foundation, reaffirmed the foundation’s dedication to improving maternal and child health through strategic investments in quality and accessible services.
Governor Muthomi Njuki, who led the groundbreaking ceremony and the Chairperson of the Council of Governors Health Committee used the platform to issue a stern warning to health professionals who abuse the licensing system.
“We are saying no to the commercialisation of healthcare. Health is not a business—it is a basic right.”
“Doctors must be licensed according to their qualifications, and hospitals must be registered based on the facilities they offer. We’ve seen disturbing cases where licensed doctors lend their documents to unqualified individuals to run clinics or pharmacies. That is illegal, unethical, and dangerous. It must stop,” said Mr. Njuki.
He emphasised that all health facilities must be registered with the Kenya Accreditation and Private Development Council (KAPDC) and the Social Health Authority (SHA) to uphold professionalism and safety in service delivery.
The Governor also warned against political leaders who discourage tax compliance, calling it a form of revenue sabotage that cripples development.
“When people are told not to pay taxes, it weakens the government’s ability to deliver critical services like health, water, and education,” Njuki asserted.
“Revenue sabotage is not just politics—it’s economic sabotage. It denies counties the funds needed to build hospitals and roads.”
Karingani Ward MCA Murithi Gaturo echoed the Governor’s sentiments and applauded the Safaricom Foundation for its investment.
“As leaders, we should be educating people on their civic duties, not misleading them. Paying taxes is how we build our county. This project is a clear example,” said Gaturo.
The upgrade of Mpukoni Health Centre is expected to ease pressure on Chuka County Referral Hospital and bring lifesaving services closer to residents of Magumoni and neighbouring communities.
By Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
