County Extends Universal Health Coverage to Lamu–Ras Kamboni Border Point

By Mzalendo Fadhili

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The Kiunga Health Centre has received a major facelift and is set to be fully equipped as part of a broader initiative by the Lamu County Government to enhance healthcare service delivery at the Lamu–Ras Kamboni border.

Located at Kenya’s northeastern edge near the Somali border, the refurbished health facility is poised to improve access to quality healthcare for local residents and travelers crossing the busy border point. The initiative aims to mitigate public health risks associated with cross-border movement and ensure timely medical interventions in this remote region.

During a recent visit to the centre, Lamu Deputy Governor and County Executive Committee Member for Health, Dr. Mbarak Salim, emphasized the county’s commitment to extending critical healthcare services to all corners of Lamu, regardless of remoteness.

“This signals a transformative investment in medical services for the people of Kiunga and beyond,” said Dr. Mbarak. “We are determined to bridge the healthcare gap and bring essential services closer to the people.”

According to Dr. Mbarak, two major upgrades are nearing completion: the Radiology Unit is 90% done, while the Operating Theatre has reached 60% completion. He affirmed that both facilities are expected to be fully operational by March 2026.

“These services will significantly reduce the time and cost it takes for residents to access medical care, especially for those in need of specialized procedures,” he noted.

For residents like Aisha Msuo, a pregnant woman from Kiunga, the changes are life-changing.

“I’ve seen friends and family travel for hours, sometimes by boat, just to get basic treatment,” she said. “Having an operating theatre here is a game-changer—especially for mothers like me who may need C-sections. The long journey to King Fahd Hospital is stressful and risky.”

The centre’s revival comes after years of neglect, partly due to Kiunga being designated as a security operation area. Kenya Red Cross Lamu Coordinator Abdulhakim Abdu praised the county’s efforts, describing the project as a milestone toward achieving Universal Health Coverage.

“This partnership is a testament to our joint commitment to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes,” said Abdu. “The new wards will provide a safe and welcoming environment for mothers and their newborns.”

Community leaders echoed similar sentiments. Harun Bin Rashid, a local elder, noted the centre’s strategic importance in supporting not just local residents but also those from neighboring Somalia.

“This facility, once fully operational, will eliminate many of the healthcare challenges we face. It will serve both Kenyans and our neighbors across the border,” he said.

The revamped Kiunga Health Centre stands as a beacon of hope and progress in a region that has long grappled with limited access to essential medical services.