Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has unveiled an ambitious long-term expansion blueprint that will transform the Kisumu-based facility into a 2,000-bed regional referral and teaching hospital, significantly boosting specialized healthcare services in western Kenya.
The proposed upgrade, whose feasibility study and master plan were presented to the hospital’s Executive Committee (EXCOM), will be implemented in phases and is designed to address growing demand for advanced healthcare, training and research services in the region.
The comprehensive study, complete with detailed architectural designs and cost estimates, was prepared by Arprim Consultants and presented by the firm’s Principal Architect, Jared Momanyi.
According to the master plan, the first phase will involve the construction of a modern eight-storey hospital with a 500-bed capacity and a range of specialized medical facilities aimed at strengthening the hospital’s referral and teaching mandate.
The facility will include medical and surgical wards, a 20-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a 20-bed High Dependency Unit (HDU), a renal support centre, a 28-bed Accident and Emergency complex, 20 operating theatres, specialized outpatient clinics, a physical rehabilitation centre and a 15-station dental unit.
The development will also incorporate key diagnostic and support services, including radiology, laboratory services and physiotherapy departments, alongside administrative offices.
To enhance operational efficiency and emergency response, the rooftop will accommodate solar energy infrastructure, water storage facilities and a helipad.
The second phase of the project will add a further 600-bed capacity hospital and supporting infrastructure, including a Doctors’ Plaza and expanded clinical support services.
Once all phases and associated developments are completed, JOOTRH is expected to attain a capacity of 2,000 beds, positioning it among the largest referral and teaching hospitals in the country.
The master plan also outlines broader infrastructural developments, aimed at supporting the hospital’s future growth.
These include construction of staff housing under the Affordable Housing Programme, expansion of training and research facilities, relocation of selected support services, establishment of a modern logistics centre, enhanced parking facilities and improved traffic management systems within the hospital complex.
Hospital officials said the proposed developments are intended to strengthen healthcare delivery, while creating an integrated medical city capable of supporting specialized treatment, medical education and research.
During the presentation, members of the Executive Committee reviewed the proposals and offered recommendations to refine the designs and ensure the development aligns with the institution’s operational requirements and long-term strategic objectives.
The consultants welcomed the feedback, noting that stakeholder engagement would play a critical role in shaping a facility capable of meeting future healthcare demands.
Speaking during the meeting, JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise, praised Arprim Consultants for delivering a comprehensive plan and called on stakeholders to support its implementation.
He said the hospital was committed to realizing the first phase of the development by 2030, as part of efforts to strengthen specialized healthcare services and cement JOOTRH’s position as a leading referral, teaching and research institution in the region.
The planned expansion comes as the hospital continues to position itself as a key referral facility serving millions of residents across western Kenya and neighbouring counties, amid rising demand for specialized medical care and training services.
By Chris Mahandara
