By Yoga David
The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has been elevated to a national teaching and referral facility and officially established as a State Corporation.
The announcement was made through a cabinet news dispatch following a cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto on Tuesday, in Nairobi.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o welcomed the decision. Through a statement to newsrooms, he expressed his sincere gratitude to President Ruto and the Cabinet for recognizing the hospital’s critical role in public health and medical training.
“With its new status, JOOTRH will receive adequate resources to continue expanding its service delivery in the Lake Region and beyond,” Governor Nyong’o stated.
The elevation of the county facility is expected to enhance JOOTRH’s capacity to deliver specialized healthcare services, not only in Kisumu but also across the Lake Region and beyond.
Governor Nyong’o further commended JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, the hospital’s Board of Management, and staff for their dedication in implementing various healthcare reforms, which have significantly improved service delivery.
“My government will continue to support and nurture JOOTRH in the capacity-building needed for effective service delivery,” he added.
With its new national status, JOOTRH is set to now benefit from increased budget allocations, enhanced infrastructure, and greater autonomy in governance, allowing it to expand its medical services and research capabilities.
The hospital’s elevation marks a major milestone for Kisumu, strengthening its position as a regional healthcare hub and a leader in medical research, training, and specialized healthcare.
This move aligns with both the national and county government’s agenda to improve access to quality healthcare and enhance Kenya’s medical training and research capacity.