The Ministry of Health and Sanitation is set to receive a substantial allocation of Sh4.042 billion in the proposed Kitui County budget for the Financial Year 2025/2026, making it the most funded sector. This was revealed during the Public Participation Forum for the Draft Annual Budget Estimates held at KEFRI in Kitui Town. Chief Officer for Public Health and Sanitation, Lynn Kitwan, presented key focus areas of the ministry, emphasizing a strong drive to enhance healthcare infrastructure and service delivery across the county.
With a total proposed county budget of Sh13.7 billion, County Treasury Minister Peter Mwikya Kilonzo, also known as Tangawizi, noted that Sh4.4 billion representing 32% of the budget—is allocated to development, surpassing the constitutionally mandated 30%. He reiterated that this financial plan is the result of inclusive consultations and is aligned with national and county-level development frameworks. Tangawizi reaffirmed the county’s commitment to prioritizing health as a fundamental pillar of public service, in line with Governor Julius Malombe’s promise to provide quality and accessible healthcare to all Kitui residents.
Among the major initiatives lined up by the ministry is the renovation and modernization of existing health facilities to ensure they meet operational standards and serve residents better. A critical component of this effort involves the removal and safe disposal of hazardous asbestos roofing from several hospitals and health centers, such as those in Kauwi, Kyuso, and Ikanga. This move is intended to create safer environments for both patients and healthcare providers. The ministry also plans to continue issuing stipends to Community Health Promoters (CHPs), whose grassroots contributions remain vital in improving household-level healthcare access.
The introduction of the Facility Improvement Fund (FIF) is expected to be a game changer in how healthcare services are delivered in Kitui. The fund will allow facilities to retain and reinvest their own revenue to address local needs quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the ministry will invest in advanced medical equipment, including the BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry) machine which will enhance the county’s early diagnosis and intervention for hearing-impaired individuals, ensuring they receive the necessary support. These strategic interventions are designed to boost the quality of care and create a more responsive, accessible, and resilient healthcare system.
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