News Categories: Health and Sanitation

The County Government of Nandi has taken a significant step toward improving healthcare access following the official site handover for the construction of the Meteitei Sub-County Hospital complex.

The project, valued at KSh 350 million, will be undertaken by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), marking a major milestone in the county’s efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure. The development follows resolutions made during a high-level meeting held on July 1, 2026, at the Office of the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Hon. Felix Koskei. The meeting was led by Nandi Governor H.E. Hon. Stephen Sang alongside other county leaders.

Speaking during the handover, Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation Fredrick Kiptum Kosgei emphasized that the new hospital complex will significantly ease access to quality healthcare services for residents of Tinderet Sub-County, who have for years been forced to travel long distances to seek medical care in neighboring counties such as Kisumu and Kericho.

The Ministry of Defence has been tasked with supervising and executing the project, with expectations set for completion within a record six-month period. County leadership expressed confidence in the MoD’s capacity to deliver the facility on time and to the required standards.

Leaders present lauded the collaborative efforts between national and county governments, noting that such partnerships are key to accelerating development. They reiterated that Nandi County is on a transformative path, driven by unity of purpose and a shared commitment to improving the welfare of its residents.

Once complete, the Meteitei Hospital complex is expected to enhance healthcare delivery, reduce referral cases, and bring essential medical services closer to the people of Tinderet and surrounding areas.

Nandi County has been ranked 9th nationally in routine immunization performance following the successful conclusion of the Big Catch-Up Campaign, which achieved an overall coverage rate of 90% among children under one year of age.

The national recognition places Nandi firmly among Kenya’s top ten best-performing counties a testament to the county’s aggressive outreach strategy. During the intensive drive, designed to push routine immunization coverage to 100%, the County conducted 343 outreach sessions, representing 98% of all planned outreaches and demonstrating a strong operational commitment to reaching communities across every ward.

According to official county health data, a total of 6,668 children under 12 months were immunized against an initial target of 7,451, translating to the 90% coverage that secured the county’s 9th-place national ranking.

Speaking on the campaign’s conclusion, Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation Fred Kiptum Kosgei praised health workers for their dedication but stressed that the momentum must continue. He called upon Nandi residents to ensure that every child under one year of age is taken to the nearest health facility to receive all recommended routine immunizations.

In a reassuring message to parents and guardians, Kiptum confirmed that vaccine supply is not a limiting factor within the county. He noted that vaccines are readily available in all 194 immunizing facilities spread across Nandi County, encouraging caregivers to visit the nearest center to close the remaining 10% gap.

With the national ranking now serving as both an accolade and a challenge, health teams across the county are shifting focus to reaching the children who missed the campaign through targeted facility-based services and follow-ups by community health volunteers aiming not just to maintain their top-ten status, but to improve upon it.

The County Government of Nandi acknowledges the critical oversight role of the Senate, as it welcomed the Senate Committee on Health, led by Senator Jackson Mandago, for a comprehensive assessment of health facilities across the county. The visit was part of a routine evaluation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) implementation in counties, aimed at tracking progress and identifying areas for further support.

During the oversight visit, the committee toured three facilities to evaluate service delivery, infrastructure, and operational efficiency. Among the facilities inspected were Meteitei Sub-County Hospital in Tinderet sub‑county, Nandi Hills County Hospital in Nandi Hills Sub‑County, and the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital (KCRH) in Emgwen Sub‑County. At Nandi Hills County Hospital, the Senate Committee was received by the County Executive Committee Member for Health, Dr. Angeline Kirui; Chief Officer for Health, Frederick Kiptum; County Director for Health, Dr. Christine Chebet; Medical Superintendent, Dr. Hussein; and the Board Chairperson. At Kapsabet, the team was further joined by the same health leadership, alongside other departmental officers.

The committee noted tremendous progress in service delivery and continued transformation across Nandi’s health sector. Specific vital developments at KCRH were highlighted, including the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) unit that awaits equipping, as well as a funeral home that is now 70% complete. The health department leadership confirmed that resources for equipping both facilities are already available, ensuring their full operationalization in the near future.

While addressing the committee, health department leadership lauded the Senate’s constitutional mandate in devolution, noting that such engagements strengthen accountability and accelerate development. The county government emphasized that the visit served as a vital platform for constructive dialogue on improving healthcare systems.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Senator Jackson Mandago acknowledged the tangible progress made in Nandi’s health sector, particularly under the administration of H.E. Governor Stephen Sang. However, the Senator noted that a few areas requiring improvements were identified and communicated to respective hospital managers for swift action. Notably, the County Department of Health concurred with this assessment, openly admitting the existing gaps and reaffirming its dedication to bridging them.

“We have seen commendable investments, especially in infrastructure and technology. But we also identified areas that need strengthening. The good news is that the department has shown a clear understanding of these challenges and a strong will to fix them,” Senator Mandago stated.

A standout achievement highlighted during the tour was the county’s aggressive ICT integration. According to the department of health leadership, Nandi County has successfully networked all its health facilities, enabling real‑time data transmission, efficient patient records management, and improved supply chain accountability. This digital leap, officials noted, is already enhancing decision‑making and reducing medicine stock‑outs.

The CEC Member for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Angeline Kirui, reassured the Senate committee that Governor Sang’s administration remains unwaveringly committed to delivering quality healthcare to every resident of Nandi. She noted that the county’s health strategy focuses on accessible, affordable, and dignified care, with ongoing plans to address the specific concerns raised by the committee. Moving forward, the department of health leadership will continue with advocacy and effective policy implementation to ensure improved service delivery across all facilities.

“We welcome the Senate’s observations. Our goal is clear: no resident should die from a preventable condition due to lack of access or poor service. We are fixing the gaps, upgrading our hospitals, and ensuring our staff have the tools they need,” Dr. Angeline stated.

The Senate committee concluded its hospital visits with a courtesy call to the Governor’s office, where they were received by H.E. Governor Stephen Sang; County Secretary, Dr. Francis Sang; CEC Member for Administration, Dr. Philemon Bureti; and the county health leadership. The oversight visit concluded with a joint commitment from both the Senate and the county government to continue working collaboratively, ensuring that the people of Nandi receive the highest standard of medical care possible.

The Senate Committee Members included Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, Baringo Senator Kiprono Chemitei and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka.

In a powerful demonstration of its commitment to accessible healthcare, the County Government of Nandi, through the Beyond Zero clinic, today took free medical services directly to the residents of Chepsonoi Market in Kapkangani Ward, Emgwen Sub County.

Led by the County Department of Health, the outreach brought together a dedicated team of healthcare professionals from Kapsabet County Referral Hospital and Kapkangani Health Center. The team included medical doctors, clinical officers, nurses, public health officers, community health promoters, and paramedics – all deployed by the county government to ensure residents received quality consultations and treatment at no cost.

The outreach reflects the unwavering commitment of H.E. Governor Stephen Sang’s administration to leave no one behind. By driving the Beyond Zero program to even the most remote markets and villages, the county government continues to turn its vision of universal health coverage into a lived reality for the people of Nandi.

Residents of Chepsonoi and surrounding areas turned out in large numbers to benefit from services that included general check-ups, maternal health screenings, and health education. Community health promoters, a critical pillar of the county’s primary healthcare strategy, played a key role in bridging communication gaps and providing follow-up guidance on disease prevention.

The successful camp was further strengthened through collaboration with Justice Kigen Medical Center, reflecting the county government’s broader effort to forge partnerships between public health systems and private institutions in service of the community.

Officials present noted that the overwhelming turnout underscored the high demand for healthcare in the region and reaffirmed the county government’s resolve to sustain such outreaches as a regular part of its service delivery agenda.

Since assuming office in 2017, H.E. Governor Stephen Sang has overseen a remarkable transformation of healthcare in Nandi County. What began as a sector plagued by strikes, drug shortages, and crumbling infrastructure has evolved into one of Kenya’s most admired county health systems – a journey marked by strategic investment, technological innovation, and an unwavering commitment to bringing quality care closer to every resident.

When Governor Sang took office in 2017, the health sector was in disarray. County hospitals had gone without essential drugs for six months, and health workers were locked in prolonged industrial action. In his first week, the new administration moved decisively to end the strikes that had “decapitated the health sector,” negotiating a return-to-work formula with nurses who had been on strike for over three months .

The agreement addressed long-standing grievances over promotions and terms of service, allowing the new government to focus on what mattered most: delivering care. The department also moved quickly to dissolve hospital committees and the County Health Management Board constituted by the previous regime, paving the way for fresh leadership and better management of county hospitals .

Central to Governor Sang’s healthcare philosophy is a simple but powerful idea: no resident should travel more than five kilometers to access medical care. This vision has driven a massive expansion of health infrastructure across the county.

Since 2017, the number of health facilities in Nandi has grown from 120 to 155, with several more under construction . New dispensaries in Jean Marie Seroney Kolelach, Cheptonon, Mombwo, Koitab Moset, and Kipsirwa will bring services to previously underserved areas, while major facilities have received significant upgrades .

At the heart of this infrastructure push is the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital, which has been transformed into a premier facility. The hospital now boasts an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) – the only such facility outside Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in the region . A modern Mother and Baby Hospital, is now 90% complete and will further enhance maternal and child healthcare services.

Perhaps no area demonstrates the success of Governor Sang’s health agenda more clearly than maternal and child health. In 2017, only 36.9% of births in Nandi County took place in health facilities. Today, that figure has nearly doubled to 65%, positioning Nandi among Kenya’s top four safest counties for childbirth .

This achievement rests on deliberate investments in maternal health infrastructure. The county has constructed and renovated 16 maternity units and 28 laboratories, while operationalizing facilities like Kibisem Dispensary, Kiropket Maternity and Meteitei sub county maternity wing. The impact on families across Nandi is tangible: fewer mothers dying from preventable complications, more babies born safely, and reduced referrals to distant hospitals.

Child health outcomes have also improved dramatically. Immunization coverage has risen from 58.2% to 72.2%, while an impressive 73% of girls aged 10-14 years have received the HPV vaccine, protecting future generations from cervical cancer . The fight against malnutrition has yielded measurable results, with underweight children decreasing from 3.3% to 1.9% .

Governor Sang’s administration has embraced technology as a tool for transforming healthcare delivery. In February 2026, Nandi County achieved a landmark milestone: 100% digitization of healthcare services across all 155 facilities, supported by the deployment of 1,206 digital devices .

The digitization drive has streamlined operations, enabled real-time tracking of medical commodities, and improved patient experiences. Residents now benefit from reduced waiting times, better access to digital records, and more efficient resource allocation . The rollout of the Tiberbu Health Management Information System (HMIS) in 98.7% of facilities has further enhanced operational efficiency .

Diagnostic capabilities have also received a major boost. Advanced equipment has been installed in six facilities, while AI-powered X-ray machines deployed in Meteitei are revolutionizing disease detection. These investments have yielded concrete results: tuberculosis case identification has improved from 27% to 40%, enabling earlier treatment and better outcomes.

Recognizing that hospitals alone cannot meet all health needs, the county has invested heavily in community-based primary healthcare. Today, 1,520 Community Health Promoters are actively serving their communities, utilizing the electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to connect residents with care .

These frontline health workers have referred 8,730 chronic patients for care, ensuring that conditions like hypertension and diabetes are managed before they become emergencies . Their work represents a shift from curative to preventive care – a strategy that improves health outcomes while reducing the burden on hospitals.

Governor Sang has been a strong supporter of the national push for Universal Health Coverage through the Social Health Authority (SHA). As of 2025, 508,188 Nandi residents – 57% of the county’s population – are registered under SHA, placing Nandi 12th nationally in enrollment .

The county has gone beyond registration, actively supporting residents to access care. In a recent free eye clinic campaign in partnership with Pankaj Social Services Foundation, the county committed to covering SHA payments for one year for all cataract patients unable to afford contributions . The initiative has already restored sight to 75 patients through free cataract surgeries, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to leaving no one behind.

The transformation of Nandi’s health sector has not only improved outcomes but also strengthened the county’s financial position. Healthcare revenue has grown substantially, from Sh225 million in 2023/24 to Sh313 million in 2024/25, with projections reaching Sh450 million in 2025/26 .

This growth reflects improved management, reduced leakages, and the confidence residents have in their county health facilities. The prescription fill rate has climbed from 60% to 85% across county facilities, ensuring that patients receive the medicines they need when they need them .

When the United States government froze funding for HIV/AIDS programs in 2025, leaving thousands of patients uncertain about their future, Governor Sang’s administration responded swiftly. The county initiated a transition plan to fully take over HIV services, shifting from donor dependency to local ownership .

The transition, developed in partnership with the Henry Johnson Foundation Medical Research Institute, focuses on seamless continuity of care, integration of services into county health systems, and capacity building for healthcare workers . Governor Sang framed the move not simply as replacing a donor, but as “fundamentally redesigning HIV-Aids programmes for long-term sustainability” .

This proactive approach has strengthened the county’s HIV response. ART sites have increased from 38 to 58, serving 1,479 clients, and HIV prevalence has dropped from 2.8% to 2% .

With his second term drawing to a close, Governor Sang is accelerating the completion of legacy projects across the county. More than 30 projects are lined up for completion across Nandi’s 30 wards .

In healthcare, the focus remains on completing rural health projects to ensure residents can access services within their villages rather than traveling long distances to urban centers . The Mother and Baby Hospital, and ongoing expansions at sub-county hospitals like Kobujoi, Kapsengere and Chepterwai represent the final pieces of a comprehensive healthcare transformation.

The journey of Nandi County’s health sector since 2017 is a testament to what focused leadership can achieve. From a system in crisis, Governor Stephen Sang has built a health sector defined by accessible facilities, improved maternal and child outcomes, technological innovation, and financial sustainability.

The numbers tell part of the story: 155 facilities serving residents within five kilometers, 65% skilled deliveries, 100% digitization, and Sh450 million in projected annual revenue. But the real measure of success lies in the lives transformed – mothers who deliver safely, children who receive life-saving vaccines, and families who no longer travel hours for quality care.

As Governor Sang reflects on his tenure, he emphasizes that the work continues. “This is not just about building structures,” he has said. “It is about building a healthier future” . For the people of Nandi, that future is already here.

In a powerful demonstration of its commitment to devolution and service delivery, the County Government has officially opened three major health facilities in Tinderet – alongside a cutting-edge AI-powered TB X-ray machine and new audiology services – bringing specialized medical care and advanced diagnostic technology closer to the very communities that need them most.

H.E. Governor Stephen Sang, alongside Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot, today commissioned the Meteitei Sub-County Maternity Hospital, a modern 22-bed facility designed to offer safe and dignified delivery services; the Prime Care Clinic; and the Eye Clinic. Adding to the milestone was the unveiling of a modern AI TB X-ray machine, set to revolutionize tuberculosis screening through rapid, accurate, and accessible diagnostics. The county also introduced audiology services at the facility – which will be offered twice every month, further expanding the range of specialized care available to residents. The multi-pronged launch marks a decisive move by the county to take quality healthcare from distant referral centers directly into the heart of the community.

The event, which drew a spirited gathering of medical staff, local leaders, and residents, underscored a key pillar of the county’s agenda – to dismantle barriers to access by ensuring that no citizen is forced to travel long distances for essential services.

Governor Sang highlighted the transformative impact of the new facilities, particularly for maternal health and disease detection.

“For too long, mothers from this region have had to travel long distances to access safe delivery services. With this new 22-bed maternity wing, we are ensuring that no mother loses her life while giving life. We are also proud to open the Prime Care and Eye Clinics, which will cater to the growing need for non-communicable disease management and optical services,” said Governor Sang. “And with this AI TB X-ray, we are bringing world-class diagnostic technology to our people – making it possible to detect tuberculosis early, right here in their own backyard.”

The Prime Care Clinic will serve as a one-stop shop for civil servants and their families which will ease service delivery, ensuring they can access quality care conveniently without disrupting their work.

Among those present were County Executive Committee Member for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Angeline Kirui, who praised the synergy between the executive and assembly in prioritizing health infrastructure, alongside Chief Officers for Health, Fredrick Kiptum, and for Water, Jonah Tireito, who ensured the facilities are well-staffed and equipped with essential utilities.

Local leadership, including Tindiret Ward MCA Hon. Paul Birech and Songhor/Soba Ward MCA Hon. Raymond Chelule, lauded the county for listening to the needs of their constituents. Tinderet Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner Joseph Lenkarie also attended, assuring residents of continued national government support to keep the facilities fully operational.

For the residents of Tinderet sub county and surrounding areas, the excitement was palpable. The new 22-bed maternity hospital is expected to handle hundreds of births every month, significantly easing pressure on Nandi Hills County Hospital and private facilities. The AI TB X-ray is poised to drastically cut diagnosis time, enabling faster treatment and curbing the spread of tuberculosis across the region, while the newly introduced audiology services will ensure that hearing impairments are identified and managed early, saving residents from costly travel for specialized care.

With this launch, the county government has once again proven that its pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is not just a policy goal, but a lived reality – one where quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare is steadily becoming a guaranteed right for every resident, right on their own doorstep.

H.E Governor Stephen Sang led residents and health stakeholders in marking World Tuberculosis Day at Meteitei Sub County Hospital in Tinderet Sub County, where he officially commissioned a modern AI-powered TB X-ray machine – the first of its kind in the county.

The event, held under the global theme “Yes We Can End TB,” underscored the county government’s commitment to bolstering healthcare infrastructure and accelerating efforts to eliminate tuberculosis.

In his address, Governor Sang described the new artificial intelligence-enabled X-ray machine as a transformative milestone in Nandi’s healthcare delivery. He noted that the advanced technology will significantly enhance early detection and diagnosis of TB, reducing wait times and improving accuracy for patients.

“This machine represents a leap forward in our fight against tuberculosis. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, we are ensuring that our people receive timely and precise diagnoses. This is how we translate our commitment to universal health coverage into tangible outcomes,” said Governor Sang.

The event brought together a host of county leaders and health officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation Dr. Angeline Kirui, Chief Officer for Health Fredrick Kiptum, Chief Officer for Water Jonah Tireito, Tinderet Ward MCA Hon. Paul Birech, and Songhor/Soba Ward MCA Hon. Raymond Chelule. Director for Health Dr. Christine Chebet was also in attendance, alongside other medical personnel and administrators.

Dr. Angeline Kirui, the CECM for Health, highlighted that the AI X-ray machine is a critical addition to the county’s diagnostic capabilities. She emphasized that the technology aligns with national and global strategies to end TB by enabling health workers to screen large numbers of residents swiftly, particularly in rural and high-risk areas.

Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot called on residents to utilize the new equipment and to remain vigilant about TB symptoms, noting that the disease remains a public health concern but is entirely curable with early intervention.

Adding a powerful personal voice to the occasion, TB champion Sharon Chepchumba shared her journey from infection to recovery. Having suffered from tuberculosis and successfully completed her treatment, Chepchumba now stands as a testament to the disease’s curability. She urged residents to prioritize their health by going for frequent check-ups, emphasizing that early detection saves lives.

“I am a living proof that TB can be treated. If you find that you have TB, do not hide – come out and get treated. The services are free, and with the new machine here, there is no reason to suffer in silence,” Chepchumba told the gathering, drawing applause from attendees.

Leaders present reaffirmed their commitment to supporting health sector innovations, with area MCA Hon. Paul Birech lauding the county administration for choosing Meteitei Sub County Hospital as the host facility for the cutting-edge equipment.

The World TB Day celebration served as both a call to action and a celebration of progress, as Nandi County continues to position itself at the forefront of medical innovation in the region. Officials reiterated that with sustained investment and community partnership, the goal of ending TB is well within reach.

In a concerted effort to bridge the gap between healthcare facilities and the community, the Nandi County Beyond Zero Clinic has successfully taken essential medical services directly to the residents of Kosirai Ward. This was achieved through two separate, highly coordinated medical outreach events held today strategically targeting different demographics to ensure comprehensive care.

The first outreach was held at Segut SDA Church, focusing on audiology, maternal and child health and women health, while a parallel event took place at Kibirbei SDA Church, which was specifically tailored to address the health concerns of men in the community. The two venues saw hundreds of residents turn out to receive free medical attention.

The events were graced by Kosirai Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA), Hon. Sarah Rubety, who lauded the initiative for prioritizing the well-being of her constituents. She emphasized the importance of such programs in reducing the burden of travel for residents seeking specialized care.

“We are bringing the hospital to the people. It is my duty to ensure that the residents of Kosirai, especially women, children, and men who often neglect their health, get these services without the barrier of distance,” Hon. Rubety stated.

The medical team was led by Dr. Sammy Sirma, the Medical Superintendent of Meteitei Sub-County Hospital. Under his supervision, a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare workers delivered a wide range of services, including consultations, screenings, and treatment.

The Beyond Zero initiative was spearheaded by the Beyond Zero Coordinator, Nancy Chepkirui, who ensured that the clinic’s mobile mandate was executed efficiently. “This is a moving hospital, and whenever it comes to your area, come out in large numbers and get treatment,” said Nancy. “The reason for this mobile vehicle is to help the far-to-reach areas of the county – the elderly, mothers, and their children – get treatment.”

Health education was a key component of the outreach, led by Philomena Tero, the Nandi Hills sub county DPHN, alongside Kapsabet County Referral Hospital Nutritionist, Davis Ruto. The duo provided critical guidance on preventive care, sanitation, and nutritional best practices.

Health advocacy at the event was led by Jane Samoei, the Head of Health Advocacy, who worked to empower residents with knowledge about their rights and the available healthcare services within the county.

A robust team of healthcare workers drawn from Kapsabet County Referral Hospital and Mosoriot Sub-County Hospital provided the much-needed services. The dedicated staff ensured that attendees received everything from routine check-ups to specialized consultations.

The dual-outreach strategy was hailed as a success by community leaders and residents alike, with many calling for the program to be held on a more regular basis. The Beyond Zero Clinic continues to serve as a vital mobile unit in Nandi County’s arsenal to achieve universal health coverage and reduce preventable diseases at the grassroots level.

“The department of health and sanitation is committed to taking services closer to the people across the county,” a statement from the team affirmed. “This is a commitment under the leadership of the CEC Member Dr. Angeline Kirui and Chief Officer Fredrick Kiptum, and will continue to steer the department to greater heights by delivering the promise made to the people of Nandi by H.E. Governor Stephen Sang.”

Nandi County today joined the global community in observing World Oral Day, with a series of events aimed at promoting oral hygiene and increasing access to dental care. The celebrations, held at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Mosoriot Campus, brought together health officials, students, and residents in a concerted push for better oral health practices.

The event, organized in partnership with the KMTC Mosoriot Dental Center, kicked off with a vibrant awareness march through Mosoriot town. Participants, including healthcare workers and local residents, walked through the town’s streets carrying placards and banners, calling on the public to prioritize dental hygiene and regular check-ups to prevent oral diseases.

Following the procession, members of the public benefited from free dental screenings and consultations at the dental center. The exercise provided residents with an opportunity to receive professional assessments and treatment advice, addressing common issues such as cavities, gum disease, and other oral infections.

Speaking during the event, County Director for Health Dr. Christine Chebet led the residents in marking the day, emphasizing the critical link between oral health and overall well-being.

“Oral health is not just about having a bright smile; it is a gateway to our general health. Diseases of the mouth can affect the rest of the body, which is why awareness and prevention are key,” said Dr. Christine.

She commended the partnership with KMTC Mosoriot, noting that such collaborations are essential in bridging the gap in dental service delivery within the community. Dr. Christine also urged residents to adopt preventive measures, including brushing twice daily, reducing sugar intake, and visiting a dentist at least twice a year.

The World Oral Day commemoration served as a reminder of the importance of oral hygiene, with the county reiterating its commitment to integrating oral health into its broader primary healthcare strategy.