Medical Services PS Ouma Oluga commissions Mulele Level 3 Hospital in Vihiga/MOHPrincipal Secretary for Medical Services Dr Ouma Oluga has commissioned the newly upgraded Mulele Level 3 Hospital in Lugaga-Wamuluma Ward, Vihiga Sub-County.
The project aims to expand access to primary healthcare services in the region.
The facility, which previously operated as Mulele Dispensary, has been upgraded to a 32-bed Level 3 hospital serving residents.
Speaking during the commissioning, Oluga said the upgrade demonstrated the government’s commitment to bringing quality and affordable healthcare services closer to communities.
He recognised the contribution of residents, the Vihiga County Government and development partners in transforming the facility from a small dispensary staffed by a single healthcare worker into a fully operational hospital.
Oluga described the upgraded facility as an important component of the government’s Universal Health Coverage agenda, saying it would improve access to essential medical services while contributing to better health outcomes in Vihiga.
“Mulele Level 3 Hospital is not just a health facility; it is a symbol of our Universal Health Coverage agenda, a source of pride for this community and a foundation for a healthier and more productive Vihiga County,” Oluga said.
The new facility will provide both outpatient and inpatient services, as well as maternal and newborn healthcare, specialised clinics and emergency care.
Oluga noted that Level 3 hospitals play an important role in taking essential services closer to communities and reducing pressure on higher-level referral hospitals.
He assured the Vihiga County Government that the Ministry of Health would continue supporting the facility through staffing and provision of equipment.
The hospital will also be integrated into national health programmes, including the National Equipment Supply Programme, as the government seeks to strengthen service delivery at primary healthcare facilities.
Oluga urged residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA), adding that increased enrolment would improve access to healthcare services and reduce the financial burden on families seeking treatment.
The Principal Secretary further reminded residents that eligible primary healthcare services offered at Level 3 facilities are provided free of charge, with healthcare facilities reimbursed through the Primary Healthcare Fund.
Oluga also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency medical services, including the recently launched 922 emergency response line and the National Ambulance Dispatch Centre.
He pledged to review a memorandum submitted by local leaders outlining healthcare priorities in Vihiga and work with the county government to address the concerns raised.
The commissioning was hosted by Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo and attended by Deputy Governor Wilberforce Kitiezo, area MP Ernest Kivai Kagesi, East African Legislative Assembly member David Ole Sankok and County Assembly Health Committee Chairperson Fred Mavisi.
Members of the County Assembly, senior Ministry of Health officials, county government officials, healthcare workers, National Government Administration Officers and residents also attended the event.
