Speaker Wetang’ula hails Bungoma Hospital upgrade as healthcare milestone

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has praised the Cabinet’s resolution to upgrade Bungoma District Hospital to a Level 6 Teaching and Referral Hospital, calling it a transformative step for healthcare in the area.

Addressing residents during a public forum in Bungoma, Wetang’ula noted that the development would greatly ease the burden of patients who previously had to travel to far-off facilities in Eldoret and Nairobi for advanced medical services.

"With this upgrade, our people will access specialized treatment much closer to home. It’s a major boost for healthcare delivery in the region," he stated.

The hospital’s new status places it under the management of the National Government, paving the way for the installation of modern medical equipment, recruitment of specialist staff, and the introduction of advanced services.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula urged Kibabii University to capitalize on the hospital’s elevation by launching a medical training program that complements its expanded role.

Bungoma Senator David Wakoli backed Wetang’ula’s sentiments, describing the development as “a game-changer that promises to uplift the lives of local communities.”

He emphasized that the upgrade had been delayed for far too long and would benefit not only Bungoma but the entire Western Kenya region.

In addition to healthcare matters, Wetang’ula also tackled other critical issues affecting the region.

In a decisive move to address longstanding inefficiencies in the issuance of national identity cards, the Speaker declared that the government has scrapped unofficial fees and biased vetting procedures that have historically hindered the process.

"An ID is a right for every Kenyan, not a privilege," he affirmed.

He also announced that all Form Four students will now receive their identity cards before completing school.

Addressing challenges in the agricultural sector, Wetang'ula voiced concern over persistent exploitation within the coffee industry.

He pledged that the County Government would overhaul factory management structures to root out corruption and empower farmers with greater decision-making authority.

"We’re returning power to those who work the soil," he declared.

Senator Wakoli voiced his support for the changes, emphasizing that "coffee growers have suffered enough at the hands of corrupt cooperatives. It’s time to weed out these exploiters and restore dignity to our farmers."