First Lady Margaret Kenyatta Lauds Mike Sonko's Commitment to Improving Healthcare in Nairobi

by Jael Keya on Tuesday, 21 August 2018 - 7:40 pm

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta has praised Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko for his commitment to improving healthcare for Nairobi residents.

Speaking during the official launch of a pediatric wing at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the first lady noted that the increased demand for healthcare services required concerted efforts from all stakeholders.

Addressing the forum, the Nairobi County boss also stated that the county government has allocated funds to build trauma centers at Mama Lucy Kibaki, Pumwani Hospital, Mbagathi County Hospital and Mutuini Hospital to ease pressure on KNH to enable it effectively carry out its mandate as a referral hospital.

[caption caption="First lady Margaret Kenyatta, Health CS Sicily Kariuki and Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko during the launch of a pediatric wing in Kenyatta National Hospital"][/caption]

Ms Kenyatta, who was accompanied by Health Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki, also commended the national government for ensuring that the demands of an ever-increasing pediatric population in the country is met.

Additionally, the First Lady applauded KNH for coming up with an innovative initiative where the private sector players are given a chance to adopt a ward.

The First Lady, who had earlier visited and comforted children undergoing cancer treatment at the hospital, expressed confidence that the ‘adopt a ward’ initiative embraced by KNH will help address some of the challenges associated with an increased patient population.

"I was extremely touched when I visited the children in the new ward. I was impressed by the extensive services and care offered by dedicated and skilled hospital staff,” the First Lady mentioned.

She encouraged other private sector institutions to partner with KNH and the Ministry of Health in supporting the Government’s efforts towards ensuring Kenyans have access to good healthcare.

Health CS Sicily Kariuki in return, appreciated the First Lady’s dedication to the health of Kenyans, particularly that of women and children.

“The health of children is central to the wellbeing of future generations. The renovation of the pediatric ward at Kenyatta National Hospital has contributed to an improved experience by our young patients as they receive their medical care,” Ms Kariuki commented.

The First Lady was also accompanied by KNH Chairman David Kimaiyo, Magnate Ventures CEO Stanley Kinyanjui, and KNH Ag. CEO Thomas Mutie.