The national government has handed over newly refurbished maternity facilities at Naru Moru and Karatina Level IV hospitals to the Nyeri County Government, a move aimed at strengthening maternal and child healthcare services.
The modernised facilities are expected to expand the county’s capacity to provide Karatina and Kieni residents with improved amenities, enhancing access to skilled birth attendance and emergency obstetric care. The upgrade was undertaken jointly by the national government through VAMED and the county government at a total cost of Sh400 million.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Medical Services Principal Secretary, Dr Ouma Oluga, said the modernisation aligns with the government’s plan to improve health infrastructure as a means of reducing maternal and infant mortality. He commended the county government for its cooperation and urged healthcare workers to optimally utilise the modern facilities to improve service delivery and enhance the well-being of mothers and newborns.
“Maternal and child health are close to President William Ruto’s heart, and we are grateful for the governor’s cooperation. The maternity facilities are part of health infrastructure development, with Sh200 million allocated for Naru Moru and Sh200 million for Karatina Level IV,” Dr. Oluga said.
The upgrades involved constructing dedicated mother-and-child wings at both hospitals, installing modern medical equipment, and training healthcare workers to ensure effective service delivery.
Nyeri Governor Dr Mutahi Kahiga described the projects as a major step toward safer deliveries and enhanced healthcare outcomes. He noted that the county recorded no maternal deaths in 2025 and said the refurbished facilities will help sustain Nyeri’s strong performance in maternal health.
“We have worked closely with VAMED through the Ministry of Health to improve maternal health. The complete refurbishment of our maternity units will be a great step toward reducing maternal deaths,” Dr Kahiga said.
Both facilities are expected to serve over 170,000 residents from Nyeri County and neighbouring Laikipia and Kirinyaga counties, providing modern, safe, and accessible maternal and child healthcare services.
By Wangari Mwangi and Samuel Maina
