Bomet County is set to mark a major milestone in its healthcare sector with the upcoming official commissioning of the Dr Joyce Laboso Mother and Child Wellness Centre.
Named in honour of the late former Governor Dr Joyce Laboso, the facility—located on the outskirts of Bomet town—is expected to significantly boost access to specialised medical services for mothers and children within the county and neighbouring regions.
“This is more than just a hospital—it’s a statement of our commitment to safeguarding the lives of mothers and children,” said Governor Prof Hillary Barchok, who has championed the legacy project since taking office. “Dr Laboso had a vision for quality healthcare, and this centre is part of fulfilling that promise.”
A spot check at the facility revealed that installation and testing of key medical equipment are already underway ahead of the highly anticipated launch, which will be presided over by President William Ruto on a date to be announced.
The ultra-modern 250-bed capacity centre will offer referral services, easing the growing pressure on Longisa County Referral Hospital and other peripheral health centres.
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“This centre will change how we respond to maternal and child health issues in Bomet,” said Dr Joseph Sitonik, the County Executive Committee Member (CEC) for Health. “It is well-equipped to handle high-risk cases that would previously have required referral to hospitals in Nairobi or Nakuru.”
According to Chief Officer for Health Felix Langat, final inspections are currently ongoing to ensure the facility meets all operational standards before opening its doors to the public.
“We are not just constructing buildings—we are building trust in public healthcare. Every mother and child who walks in here should feel safe and cared for,” said Langat during an inspection tour on Monday.
The facility is being jointly equipped by the Bomet County Government and the national government, with President Ruto having earlier pledged full support, including provision of advanced diagnostic and treatment equipment.
“The national government will walk this journey with Bomet. We will provide the resources needed to make this facility a benchmark for maternal and child health in the country,” President Ruto said during a previous visit.
Residents have welcomed the development, saying it will save lives and reduce the long distances many expectant mothers previously had to travel for quality healthcare.
“Many of us have suffered because of delays in getting treatment. This centre gives us hope,” said Mary Chebet, a resident of Kapkoros.
As Bomet positions itself as a regional health hub, the commissioning of the Dr Joyce Laboso Mother and Child Wellness Centre marks a significant step toward achieving universal healthcare coverage in the county.
By Kimutai Langat
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