Kakamega Hospitals Struggle with Drug Shortages and Poor Management
Seliphar Machoni
Kakamega County is currently grappling with a severe health crisis, as citizens report a chronic shortage of drugs, equipment, and other essential medical supplies in hospitals. This issue has significantly affected the quality of healthcare services provided to residents.
According to Fredrick Watitwa, the Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for Moyoni Ward, Matungu Level 4 Hospital, one of the major healthcare facilities in the county, is particularly hard-hit. The lack of drugs has made it difficult for residents of Matungu Sub County to access necessary medical services.
“Matungu Sub County hospital has been struggling with this problem for a long time, and I urge our governor to address it. Matungu Level 4 Hospital has no drugs. Moreover, we have incompetent pharmaceutical attendants at the hospital prescribing medications to patients, which endangers lives,” said Watitwa.
Watitwa also raised concerns about the misuse of hospital funds, claiming that tenders are being awarded to politicians who embezzle the funds meant for hospital development. “I recommend that those holding tenders at Matungu Level 4 Hospital be removed to allow the hospital to operate independently, as it generates enough revenue to sustain itself,” he suggested.
“Let us reduce the number of contractors and focus on improving the hospital’s management,” he added.
Watitwa further explained that there are ongoing investigations into allegations of drugs being stolen and sold to outside chemists. “We have instructed security officers at Matungu Hospital to conduct thorough checks on all nurses as they enter and exit the hospital to curb this issue,” he said.
He urged the county governor to ensure that the revenue collected from hospitals in each sub county remains within the sub county. This, he believes, will enhance the development of local hospitals and help avoid drug shortages.
The situation in Kakamega County highlights the urgent need for improved management and oversight in the healthcare sector to ensure that residents receive the medical care they deserve.
