By Esitika Isaac
Kisumu County Governor, His Excellency Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, today officially launched the newly refurbished Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) Victoria Annex Hospital in Milimani, which will also serve as a specialized Sickle Cell and Surgical Center.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the county’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services for its citizens.
During the opening ceremony, Governor Nyong’o emphasized the importance of the new Annex center in addressing the specific healthcare needs of the community.
The governor highlighted that the facility will provide much-needed health care and support for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease, a prevalent health condition in the region. The center is also equipped to handle a range of surgical needs.
Governor Nyong’o spoke about the growth of the healthcare sector in Kisumu County, noting the positive impact the facility will have on society as a whole.
He stressed that a robust healthcare system is crucial for the well-being of the population and contributes to economic development and social stability.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I have always believed that health is the foundation of society. Without health, individuals cannot learn, work, or contribute to the growth of their communities. That’s why we have invested in expanding primary care services and have focused on diseases that significantly impact our people, such as sickle cell disease and cancer.” he stated
In his address, the governor also raised awareness about sickle cell disease, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, comprehensive care, and ongoing research.
“In Kisumu alone, approximately two out of every 100 children are born with sickle cell disease, and around 21 percent carry the sickle cell trait. Tragically, many of these children do not live to celebrate their fifth birthday. This is an issue we can, and must, address.”
He further emphasized “Let me say this clearly: sickle cell disease is manageable. A few years ago, we launched a comprehensive strategy to address this disease. We partnered with organizations like the American Society of Hematology, Perkin Elmer, and Novartis to bring better diagnostics, treatment, and hope.”
He acknowledged the dedication and hard work of healthcare workers in Kisumu County, recognizing their vital role in providing quality care to patients.
“The Annex will begin by providing services to our very own healthcare staff in Kisumu. Our doctors, nurses, lab techs, cleaners and everyone who works hard, day and night, to serve others deserve care too. This is one small way we can say,” he said.
Governor Nyong’o also appreciated the contribution of the national government in elevating JOOTRH to a Level Six hospital. He noted that this upgrade now allows the facility to offer services at par with those provided by Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), significantly boosting healthcare capacity in the region.
“As you may be aware, the JOOTRH has now been elevated to a Level Six National Referral Hospital. That’s a huge deal not just for Kisumu, but for all of Western Kenya. And what’s more, JOOTRH is transitioning into a state corporation under the Ministry of Health.” He said.
Also present at the launch were Kisumu County Assembly Speaker Elisha Oraro, County Assembly Chief Whip Seth Kanga, CECM Public Service Salmon Orimba, CECM Agriculture Ken Onyango, Chief of Staff Aloice Ager, County Attorney Otieno Aluoka, Chief Officer of Public Health Dr. Ojwang Lusi, CEO of JOOTRH Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, and other county officials.
