In a significant step toward enhancing healthcare and emergency services in Murang’a County, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has partnered with the Murang’a County Government to construct a cutting-edge 100-bed trauma centre and doctors’ plaza at Kenneth Matiba Hospital in Kandara Sub-County.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Friday, June 27, 2025, marked the official launch of the ambitious project, which is set to transform healthcare delivery along the busy Thika–Kenol highway and beyond.
A Game-Changing Healthcare Initiative
The new trauma centre, fully funded by the national government and spearheaded by the KDF, is expected to be completed within six months.
Once operational, the facility will increase the hospital’s bed capacity from 20 to 120, significantly boosting its ability to handle emergencies and provide specialized care.
The doctors’ plaza will further enhance the hospital’s capacity by offering dedicated spaces for medical professionals to deliver high-quality services.
The strategic location of Kenneth Matiba Hospital along the Thika–Kenol highway, a corridor known for frequent accidents, underscores the urgency and importance of this project.
The trauma centre will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring round-the-clock emergency response for accident victims and other critical cases from Murang’a County and neighboring regions.
Leadership and Vision Behind the Project
The groundbreaking ceremony was presided over by Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru, who both emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership.
Governor Kang’ata hailed the collaboration as a milestone in improving healthcare access for residents, stating, “This trauma centre will not only operate around the clock but will also be critical in handling accident cases from within and beyond Murang’a. It’s a timely investment for our people.”
Defence PS Mariru echoed these sentiments, lauding the synergy between the national and county governments in delivering projects that directly benefit Kenyans.
He highlighted the KDF’s expertise in construction as a key factor in ensuring the project’s timely completion and adherence to high standards.
Murang’a County’s Commitment to Healthcare and Infrastructure
Governor Kang’ata also outlined his administration’s broader efforts to improve healthcare services across the county.
These include the construction of new dispensaries and health centres, as well as the renovation and upgrading of existing hospitals. The trauma centre project aligns with these initiatives, positioning Murang’a as a hub for quality healthcare in the region.
Beyond healthcare, the county is also investing in sports infrastructure to promote talent development and community engagement.
During the ceremony, Kang’ata revealed plans to construct Mumbi Stadium, a modern 10,000-seat facility, to enhance sports development in the region.
Additionally, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi is expected to oversee the construction of another stadium in Murang’a, further solidifying the county’s commitment to holistic development.
Community and Stakeholder Involvement
The groundbreaking event was attended by key stakeholders, including Deputy Governor Stephen Munania, Kambiti Ward MCA Laban Chomba, County Executive Committee Member for Health Dr. Fredrick Mbugua, Chief Officer for Health Eliud Maina, and other health sector leaders.
Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit driving the project and the shared commitment to improving the lives of Murang’a residents.
The county government has played a pivotal role by providing the land for the hospital’s expansion, demonstrating its dedication to facilitating transformative projects.
This partnership model, combining national resources, military expertise, and local support, sets a precedent for future collaborations aimed at addressing critical community needs.
A Broader Impact on Murang’a and Beyond
The trauma centre is poised to have a far-reaching impact, not only in Murang’a but also in neighboring counties.
By addressing the urgent need for advanced emergency care along the Thika–Kenol highway, the facility will save countless lives and reduce the burden on other regional hospitals.
The doctors’ plaza will also attract specialized medical professionals, further elevating the quality of care available to residents.
Moreover, the project aligns with Kenya’s broader healthcare goals, including improving access to quality medical services and reducing mortality rates from accidents and emergencies.
The 24/7 operational model ensures that the facility will be a lifeline for those in need, regardless of the time of day.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Murang’a
As construction progresses, the trauma centre and doctors’ plaza at Kenneth Matiba Hospital are set to become a beacon of hope for Murang’a County.
The project not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also positions the county as a leader in regional development.
With additional investments in sports infrastructure and ongoing efforts to upgrade healthcare facilities, Murang’a is on a clear path to becoming a model of integrated development.
Residents and stakeholders eagerly await the completion of the trauma centre, which promises to deliver life-saving services and enhance the region’s resilience in the face of emergencies.
As Governor Kang’ata aptly noted, this is an investment in the people of Murang’a—an investment that will yield dividends in health, safety, and community well-being for years to come.
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