Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has officially laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Kongowea Level 4 Hospital, a major step aimed at improving access to quality healthcare within the county.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, the Governor announced plans to name the facility after Raila Odinga, citing his long-standing advocacy for equitable healthcare across the country.
“We will name this facility Raila Odinga Kongowea Hospital because he believed every Kenyan deserves quality healthcare regardless of colour, religion, or tribe,” Nassir said. “Despite the naysayers, his ideology will continue to live on as long as ODM remains strong and rooted in the hearts of Kenyans.”
The Governor emphasized that the new hospital will ease the burden on residents who currently have to travel long distances to access medical services. He noted that communities in Kongowea will no longer need to cross into other parts of the city for treatment.
“Our mothers will no longer be forced to cross the bridge to give birth or seek better healthcare. Services will now be brought closer to the people,” he added.
Nassir further revealed plans to expand healthcare infrastructure across the county, with additional hospitals set to be constructed in Mikindani, Likoni, Changamwe, and other sub-counties. The move, he said, is part of a broader strategy to decentralize health services and ensure equitable access.
At the same time, the Governor issued a stern warning to healthcare administrators, vowing strict action against any form of negligence or inefficiency.
“We will not allow any laxity in our hospitals. Any administrator or head of a facility found failing in their duties will be dealt with decisively,” he warned.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who attended the event, welcomed the decision to name the hospital after Odinga, terming it a fitting tribute.
“Naming this hospital after Raila Odinga is a great honour to our leader and reflects his enduring love for the people,” Wanga said.
The Kongowea Level 4 Hospital is expected to significantly boost healthcare delivery in Mombasa, particularly in densely populated areas, and reduce pressure on existing facilities once completed.
