President William Ruto’s government has stepped up health preparedness measures ahead of the reception of the late Raila Amolo Odinga, with the Ministry of Health deploying 36 ambulances to offer full emergency medical coverage at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The deployment, coordinated by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Francis Oluga, reflects a nationwide emergency response plan involving multiple health and disaster agencies to ensure safety and swift medical support during the high-profile event.
Oluga said each ambulance has been fitted with both Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) equipment, enabling paramedics and medical teams to respond to any medical emergency.
“The mobilization of ambulances and medical personnel reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health during significant national events,” he said.
Every unit, Oluga explained, will be staffed with a paramedic, a nurse, and a driver to ensure on-site medical assistance and safe evacuation if needed. The Ministry, he added, has worked closely with key emergency response providers to achieve smooth coordination.
The 36 ambulances will be distributed among leading emergency service providers, each tasked with specific operational roles. The Kenya Red Cross will contribute 20 ambulances forming the main fleet, while St. John Ambulance has been assigned 4 units. Nairobi Disaster Service will provide 3, Nairobi Emergency Services will field 8, and Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) will have one advanced ambulance equipped for critical care.
A Port Health ambulance will also remain on standby at JKIA to support ongoing operations and ensure adherence to health and safety standards given the large expected turnout. “The deployment ensures that all possible medical emergencies are anticipated and managed efficiently,” Oluga added, noting that the operation focuses on speed, readiness, and inter-agency communication.
He further revealed that similar emergency plans are being implemented in Kisumu and Siaya counties, where national memorial activities for the late leader are scheduled to take place.
The Ministry’s statement highlighted the importance of collaboration between national and county teams in providing unified health and disaster response. By pooling medical resources from different entities, the government aims to uphold both safety and order throughout the memorial period.
With thousands expected to gather at JKIA and subsequent venues, the Ministry’s comprehensive approach demonstrates preparedness, professionalism, and respect as the nation receives one of its most revered political figures. The health operation stands as a symbol of Kenya’s ability to handle large-scale public events with precision and compassion.
President William Ruto addressing the nation from State House, Naiobi following the death of Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025.