In a major boost to healthcare in West Pokot, Governor Simon Kachapin has received a state-of-the-art CT scan machine under the National Equipment Service Program (NESP) – Taifa Care initiative.
The equipment, delivered by a delegation led by Dr. Wilson Aruasa, advisor to President William Ruto and former Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) CEO, marks a milestone in the county’s health journey since the advent of devolution.
“This is the first CT scan machine West Pokot has ever received since devolution. It’s a game-changer for diagnosis and treatment,” Governor Kachapin said during the handover ceremony.
“For years, our people have had to travel long distances to access imaging services. That ends now,” he added.
Which West Pokot hospital offers CT scan services
The new equipment is expected to significantly strengthen imaging and diagnostic services across the county, especially in Kapenguria County Referral Hospital.
Governor Kachapin emphasized that this development is part of a broader, deliberate effort by his administration to expand health access and improve service delivery.
“We’ve continued to invest heavily in upgrading sub-county hospitals, expanding infrastructure, introducing new services, and hiring skilled personnel,” the governor said.
“Just recently, we recruited 360 healthcare workers, including specialists and nurses, to bridge staffing gaps and meet national standards,” he added.
To address frequent drug stockouts that previously paralyzed service delivery, the governor also revealed that the county currently has zero outstanding balances with KEMSA ensuring continuous and uninterrupted medical supply distribution.
The governor further rallied support for the ongoing Social Health Authority (SHA) registration drive, which he described as critical to strengthening the county’s health financing strategy.
“So far, 123,000 people have registered with SHA, and we are targeting 250,000. This program will not only cushion households from health expenses but also boost our county’s revenue. I urge everyone to register,” he said.
Noting that 36% of the county budget is now allocated to healthcare, Governor Kachapin underscored the link between governance, leadership, and universal health coverage.
Wilson Aruasa, while commending the county’s strides, challenged leaders to prioritize investments that directly impact the well-being of citizens.
“Let’s make decisions that support and benefit our people. There’s no greater investment than one in health,” he said.
