Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to footer

News

MAKUENI RESIDENTS CELEBRATE AS HIGH MAST SOLAR FLOODLIGHTS TRANSFORM LOCAL MARKETS

Residents of Makueni County are celebrating improved security and longer business hours following the installation of high mast solar floodlights in key markets.

At Ngutwa Market in Muvau/Kikuumini Ward, traders say a newly erected 20-metre solar-powered floodlight has transformed the trading centre by lighting up previously dark areas. The improved illumination has boosted trader confidence, allowing businesses to operate into the evening and attract more customers.

Similar gains have been reported at Senda Market, where traders describe the project as a major boost to night-time business and public safety.

The installations are part of a partnership between the Makueni County Government and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC).

Other beneficiaries include Kinyambu, Makutano/Kyumani, Kona, Kithoni, Kitunduani, Kithuki and Kitise markets, as well as Kinguutheni Primary School.

County officials say more projects are underway to expand clean energy access, enhance security and stimulate local economies.

MAKUENI RESIDENTS BENEFIT FROM FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH AT UNOA GROUNDS

The Department of Health Services, in partnership with the MPESA Foundation, Zuri Health, and Lions Sight First Eye Hospital, has launched a comprehensive medical outreach program at Unoa Grounds in Wote.

The initiative is offering a range of medical services, including general check-ups, dental care, eye screening, breast cancer screening, and HPV vaccination for girls aged ten to 14 years.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili commended the impact of the medical camp, noting the positive difference it was making in the lives of Makueni residents.

Health ECM, Dr. Paul Musila underscored the county’s ongoing collaboration with the MPESA Foundation, citing key projects such as the construction and equipping of the Tawa Maternity Wing at a cost of Ksh 28 million, the upgrade of Mutulani Dispensary at Ksh 17 million, and the construction of the Sultan Hamud Maternity Wing at Ksh 60 million.

He further noted that patients with complex cases are being referred to the county referral hospital for specialized care.

MPESA Foundation Program Manager, Sophiah Onyango, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to transforming lives, with a strong focus on maternal and child health.

She emphasized that their support extends beyond the medical camp, as they continue to follow up with patients to ensure they receive proper care.

The outreach program has attracted a large number of residents.

MAKUENI RESIDENTS BENEFIT FROM FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS AS COUNTY MARKS WORLD KIDNEY DAY

Makueni County joined the rest of the world in marking World Kidney Day at Makueni County Referral Hospital, where hundreds of residents turned up to raise awareness about kidney health and access free medical check-ups.

Leading the celebrations, Chief Officer for Health Administration and Human Resource, Dr. Harvey Mulei Mbithi, underscored the importance of early detection and prevention in the fight against chronic kidney disease.

He reaffirmed the county’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services, highlighting the construction of over 100 health facilities since the inception of devolution as part of efforts to improve medical access.

The event featured free health screenings, including kidney function tests and assessments for other non-communicable diseases, giving residents an opportunity to detect potential health issues early.

Dr. Mbithi urged the public to adopt healthier lifestyles, undergo regular check-ups, and seek timely medical intervention to combat kidney disease.

World Kidney Day is observed globally to educate communities on the importance of kidney health, promote early diagnosis, and encourage preventive measures against kidney-related illnesses.

MAKUENI RESIDENTS BEGIN VALIDATION OF DRAFT ENERGY POLICY

Makueni residents, through sector representatives, have started validating the county’s draft Energy Policy to ensure it aligns with community needs.

On Tuesday, representatives from Makueni and Kibwezi West Sub-counties reviewed the draft policy, discussing energy usage, challenges, and potential local solutions to achieve universal energy access in the county.

The exercise, led by Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, Housing, and Energy Executive Committee Member Eng. Peter Mumo and Chief Officer Eng. Naomi Nthambi, will extend to all six sub-counties. The goal is to create a citizen-centric policy that effectively addresses the county’s energy challenges.

#wauniwakwikanesanaulungalu

MAKUENI REGISTERS MOST SUCCESSFUL KYISA OUTING IN HOMA BAY

Makueni County recorded her most successful performance yet at the 10th edition of the Kenya Youth Inter-county Sports Association (KYISA) Games, held in Homa Bay from April 13th to 19th , 2025.

The county’s women’s football team successfully defended their title for the third consecutive year, defeating Kajiado 5-4 on penalties in a thrilling final. The squad maintained an unbeaten record throughout the tournament.

Makueni also claimed victory in men’s basketball, overpowering hosts Homa Bay 78-52 in the finals. Overall, the county reached five finals—in men’s and women’s football, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s volleyball—showcasing its emergence as sporting giant in the country.

Makueni Sports Executive Committee Member Sebastian Kyoni attributed the outstanding performance to Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.’s grassroots sports initiatives, particularly the ward-based Ligi Mashinani program and the MKJ Supa Cup tournament, which have nurtured emerging talent and elevated the county’s competitive edge.

MAKUENI REFERRAL HOSPITAL RECEIVES PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING EQUIPMENT FROM ASTRAZENECA

The Makueni County Referral Hospital’s oncology department has received a significant boost in its fight against prostate cancer following the donation of 500 Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test kits and a chroma analyzer from AstraZeneca. The equipment, valued at KSh 2.2 million, was handed over today.

The new resources are set to enhance community-based screening for prostate cancer, facilitating early detection and timely treatment within Makueni County.

Dr. Josephat Sua of AstraZeneca officially presented the PSA kits and analyzer to the County Executive Member for Health Services, Dr. Paul Musila, and the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Martha Munyao, during a brief ceremony at the hospital.

MAKUENI REFERRAL HOSPITAL LABORATORY ACHIEVES ISO COMPLIANCE

Makueni Referral Hospital’s laboratory has proudly attained ISO 15189 compliance, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to excellence. The journey towards aligning the laboratory with the highest international standards began in 2015.

CEO Ms. Martha Munyao emphasized that this compliance ensures the quality and reliability of test results, giving patients confidence in the accuracy and dependability of their diagnoses. Additionally, it will enhance patient safety, boost efficiency, and foster staff development.

Ms. Munyao received the certification on behalf of the county at a celebration in Nanyuki, where other qualifying institutions were also honored.

MAKUENI REFERRAL HOSPITAL EMPOWERS CANCER PATIENTS WITH GIFT HAMPERS AND ENHANCED CARE PLANS.

Makueni County Referral Hospital on Thursday hosted a special event dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their caregivers, marked by the distribution of gift hampers that were donated by the county First Lady Makueni – Anita Mutula

The occasion brought together top health officials, including the Executive Committee Member for Health Services, Dr. Paul Musila, and the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Martha Munyao.

The hospital’s oncology department was lauded for its exceptional commitment to patient care, with plans unveiled to expand cancer treatment services.

Among the developments is the construction of a larger facility aimed at accommodating the growing number of patients requiring specialized care.

Patients were also urged to take full advantage of the Social Health Authority (SHA) insurance system, which offers expanded healthcare benefits and support.

Health leaders emphasized the critical importance of regular cancer screenings, highlighting early detection as a key factor in improving treatment outcomes.

This initiative reflects the hospital’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients while advancing the county’s overall healthcare services.

MAKUENI REFERRAL HOSPITAL BOOSTED WITH ADVANCED SURGICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr on Wednesday commissioned new medical equipment at Makueni County Referral Hospital, marking a major boost to surgical and diagnostic services.

Among the additions is a modern diathermy monopolar machine that uses high-frequency electric currents to cut, coagulate or destroy tissue during surgery, significantly reducing blood loss.

The hospital also received infusion pumps, operating lights and tables, anesthesia machines, patient monitors for theatre and transit use, and a traction bed designed for orthopedic procedures.

A key highlight is a modern laparoscopic tower purchased by the county government. The mobile, integrated workstation supports minimally invasive surgeries and features high-resolution 4K UHD cameras, monitors, light sources, oxygen insufflators and suction systems that enhances precision, visualization and surgeon comfort.

In addition, the facility acquired a digital X-ray system that uses electronic detectors instead of film. The technology converts images into digital files within minutes, enabling faster diagnosis, improved image quality and reduced radiation exposure compared to conventional X-rays.

Governor Mutula noted that the high cost of medical equipment remains a major challenge for counties. He said the new acquisitions have enabled Makueni to expand operating theatres from two to four.

Hospital management reported that on busy days the X-ray unit handles between 70 and 80 patients, and the new equipment is expected to ease congestion and shorten waiting times.

Consultant general surgeon and endoscopist Dr. Alex Ombati said the upgrades will reduce referrals, allowing the hospital to manage even complex cases locally.

The equipment was procured through a collaboration between the National Equipment Service Programme (NESP) and county governments.

MAKUENI RECOGNISED FOR OUTSTANDING GROWTH IN OWN-SOURCE REVENUE

Makueni County has been commended by the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) for its outstanding improvement in own-source revenue collection.

Speaking during the 2026 National Productivity and Performance Conference organised by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission in Nairobi on Thursday ,CRA Chairperson Mary Wanyonyi Chebukati noted that Makueni is among the counties that have recorded significant growth in locally generated revenue.

The county’s own-source revenue increased from KSh 189 million in the 2013/2014 financial year to KSh 1.291 billion in the 2024/2025 financial year, representing an approximate growth of 582 per cent.

She emphasized the need for counties to strengthen revenue administration and management systems, observing that revenue generation and productivity are closely interconnected.

She also recommended the development of a national revenue productivity framework, the promotion of evidence-based revenue policy formulation, and the strengthening of human capital productivity as key strategies for enhancing county revenue collection.

Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, who represented Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. at the conference, highlighted five key pillars that have transformed revenue collection in Makueni.

These include digital transformation, expansion of the revenue base, strategic partnerships, citizen engagement and voluntary compliance, as well as performance management and accountability.

Mulili, who was a panellist during a breakout session at the conference, said own-source revenue is no longer merely a financial requirement but a strategic instrument for strengthening governance, improving institutional performance, and enhancing service delivery.