Modern mother and baby hospital to boost Trans Nzoia maternal healthcare

The new St Teresa Mother and Baby Hospital in Trans Nzoia will handle more than 500 deliveries monthly, improving maternal healthcare in the region.

Governor George Natembeya said the facility reflects his administration’s commitment to strengthening maternal services across all county health institutions, especially in rural areas where access to quality care has long been limited.

The hospital, formerly known as Tomboya Hospital, is located in Tuwan ward, Saboti subcounty.

It was constructed through a partnership between the county government and the World Bank under the Kenya Devolution Support Programme (KDSP I). The facility is expected to serve more than 120,000 residents and help reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.

Speaking during the official opening last Friday, Governor Natembeya described the project as a major milestone delivered within a short period.

“We broke ground for this hospital in March 2023, and by November 2025 it was complete and handed over to the county. That is what commitment to service delivery looks like,” he said.

The governor said the project cost Sh145 million, with an additional Sh54 million spent on medical equipment and oxygen piping systems.

“This hospital will handle over 500 deliveries every month. It will ease pressure on referral hospitals and ensure mothers and babies receive quality care closer to home,” he added.

County health officials said the facility aims to increase skilled birth attendance, improve reproductive health services and reduce the long distances expectant mothers previously travelled to seek care.

Health and Sanitation executive Joseph Lorot described the hospital as a “game changer” for Trans Nzoia’s healthcare system.

“Residents from Matisi, Tuwan, Shanti, Kipsongo and Mitume will now access services without travelling long distances,” he said.

The hospital is also expected to decongest Kijana Wamalwa Teaching and Referral Hospital, improving service delivery across the county.

Health chief officer Dr Judith Baraza said the county plans to recruit adequate staff and specialised personnel to maximise the hospital’s impact.

“We are prioritising qualified health workers to ensure residents receive timely, quality care, particularly those from informal settlements who face the greatest barriers,” she said.

Director of Medical Services Dr Isaac Babu urged residents to utilise the facility.

“This is a world-class hospital equipped with modern technology. We encourage families to seek care early to protect both mothers and children,” he said.

The commissioning ceremony also marked a boost to the county’s healthcare infrastructure. AMPATH Uzima, with support from the United States government, donated medical and ICT equipment worth Sh14 million ($108,000).

The donation included an AI-powered digital X-ray machine to improve tuberculosis diagnosis, as well as computers to support the rollout of Electronic Medical Records across 73 health facilities.

AMPATH Uzima Chief of Party Sylvester Kimaiyo said the equipment would strengthen disease detection and patient care.

“The digital X-ray machine will greatly improve TB diagnosis and early screening, while the ICT equipment will support electronic medical records. Together with the County Government of Trans Nzoia, we continue to strengthen health systems and improve care for people with HIV, TB and non-communicable diseases,” he said.

With modern infrastructure, increased capacity and advanced technology, St Teresa Mother and Baby Hospital marks a significant step towards expanding healthcare access and improving maternal and child health outcomes in Trans Nzoia.