Government Approves Construction of Level 6 Referral Hospital for Bungoma County

The government has approved the construction of a Level 6 referral and teaching hospital in Bungoma County — a move poised to transform healthcare access and delivery in Western Kenya.

This significant decision by the Cabinet marks a major milestone in the government's broader plan to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improve healthcare access in underserved regions.

The new facility, set to be constructed in partnership with the African Development Bank, will be one of two Level 6 hospitals approved by the Cabinet — the other being in Kericho County.

Plans to begin the construction of the state-of-the-art hospital gained momentum under the tenure of the immediate former Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Mulongo.

The establishment of a Level 6 hospital in Bungoma is expected to dramatically enhance the region’s healthcare infrastructure, reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care, and strengthen the local health workforce through training and education.

A Level 6 hospital, also known as a national referral and teaching hospital, represents the highest tier in Kenya’s healthcare system.

These hospitals are equipped to offer advanced medical services, specialized treatment, and act as referral centers for lower-level health facilities.

In addition to providing complex and critical care, Level 6 hospitals also serve as training institutions for medical professionals and are involved in medical research and innovation.

The project is part of the promises made by President William Ruto to the region, following a partnership with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.

A similar project will be set up in Kericho County.

Kenya currently has five public Level 6 hospitals: Kenyatta National Hospital, Mathari Mental Hospital, the National Spinal Injury Referral Hospital (NSIR), Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Referral Hospital, and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.

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