The Senate Committee on Health has praised efforts by the Kilifi County Government to strengthen healthcare but raised alarm over funding delays, staff shortages, and expired medication during an oversight visit.

The committee,  chaired by Bungoma Senator David Wakoli, toured Mtwapa Health Centre Level 4 and Kilifi County Referral Hospital to assess healthcare service delivery, infrastructure, and resource use.

Senators noted visible improvements under Governor Gedion Mung’aro’s leadership, including the recruitment of over 209 health workers and ongoing infrastructure upgrades such as new outpatient wings.

“These developments represent a job well done and are a step in the right direction toward equitable healthcare for all residents,” said Sen. Wakoli, lauding the county's efforts to improve access and reduce congestion in facilities.

However, the team expressed concern over the delayed disbursement of funds from the Social Health Authority (SHA), which has disrupted operations in local health centres. According to the committee, the funding gap has stalled payment of bills and essential services.

“As the Senate, we will engage the Ministry of Health and SHA management to ensure that timely and consistent funding to counties is prioritized,” Wakoli said.

Despite the recruitment drive, senators noted the absence of senior clinical staff in some facilities, which they said hampers oversight and the quality of care.

The committee also flagged cases of staff absenteeism without proper authorization and found expired medicines in all the facilities visited.

Weak internal leadership and accountability structures were also cited as a major concern. “Health workers who neglect their responsibilities must face appropriate disciplinary action to safeguard the integrity of the healthcare system,” Wakoli stressed.

The Committee is expected to compile a detailed report with recommendations for debate and action by the full Senate.