20/05/2026
Following the Committee's invitation, the Executive Department for Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation steered by CECM Dr. Nassir Lekudere appeared before the County Assembly Committee on Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation chaired by Hon. Jeremiah Leitoro to discuss the following priorities notably a rigorous review of the budget estimates for financial year 2026/2027, the status of healthcare service delivery across the county with particular emphasis on the County Referral Hospital, the Utilization of Social Health Authority, the welfare of Healthcare workers and the status of ambulance services across the county.
Addressing inquiries pertaining to the state of Healthcare Services delivery in County Referral Hospital, Dr. Nassir underscored some of the imperative advancements including state of the art Blood satellite centre which allows the County to process and store blood locally. Furthermore, he talked about the expansion of laboratory capacity with 30 additional tests including specialized investigations such as Hormonal profiles, Thyroid function tests among others vital in improving the diagnostic capabilities and quality of care. In addition, he highlighted on the installation of a modern 128-slide CT scan that will enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve timely diagnosis, the introduction of specialized clinics including ENT clinic and finally the piping of oxygen to all wards and essential departments through partnership with AMREF, Local Area Netwoking (LAN).
With respect to the welfare of workers, Dr. Nassir reiterated that the department has outrightly supported their Healthcare workers by ensuring that employees maintain a work -life balance through flexible shifts, leave policies and other measures. Furthermore, several Healthcare workers have been allowed to go for specialization trainings while others have been supported to attend conferences and seminars.
Responding to concerns regarding the status of ambulance services across the county, Dr. Nassir reported that there are 17 ambulances spread out across various wards in the county, with 12 ambulances that are operational and 5 that require overhaul.
In his concluding remarks, the Chair of the Committee urged the CECM to swiftly address issues that are threatening the outpatients services promptly. He further reiterated the significance of this engagement in the check and balance exercise that promotes openness, address systemic service gaps and encourage public accountability across the county's healthcare system.
Alongside the CECM, in attendance were; CO Medical Services Mr. Josphat Lenguris, Samburu County Teaching and Referral Hospital administrator, The medical superintendent Samburu County Teaching and Referral Hospital and staff from the department.