The Kenya Defence Forces, Monday, kicked off the construction of 1.7billion-shilling projects in Siaya county with the ground breaking ceremony presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for defence, Soipan Tuya.
The projects include the construction of a modern referral hospital and the expansion of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya town.
Speaking at the groundbreaking, Cabinet Secretary Tuya reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritizing projects that touch on the lives of citizens.
“The government is committed to ensuring that the people of Siaya have quality healthcare and that the government is laying ground for a prosperous community in Siaya County,” she said.
She underscored that expanding and installing modern healthcare infrastructure is central to the Kenya Kwanza administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The CS who was flanked by principal secretaries Elijah Mwangi (sports), Dr. Ouma Oluga (medical services) and Dr. Patrick Mariru (defence), said that once complete, the state-of-the-art hospital will be equipped with cutting edge medical technology that will provide specialized health care and contribute to the overall well-being of the people of Siaya.
On the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga stadium, the CS said that KDF will upgrade it and increase its capacity from the current 5,000 to a 20,000-seater stadium.
“We will expand terraces, erect a roof canopy and improve surrounding infrastructure” said Tuya adding that this will help to promote talent development and position Siaya as not just a local hub but a regional and international hub for all types of sports.
Siaya Governor, James Orengo described the projects and health sector infrastructural expansion as a timely intervention that will strengthen Siaya’s healthcare system.
“This project will transform healthcare services delivery in Siaya County and provide the much-needed medical care for our people,” he said adding “We will continue working with the national government to ensure these projects are not only completed on time but also well managed and sustainable.”
According to the governor, the upgraded health facility will not only serve Siaya residents but will also attract patients from across the region, becoming a key healthcare hub facility beyond the county’s borders.
While welcoming the launch of the second phase of the stadium construction, Orengo expressed optimism that the upgraded facility will elevate Siaya’s sporting profile and offer young people new opportunities to develop their talents.
“The stadium will not only be a home for sports but also a space for community pride, youth empowerment, and economic growth,” he said.
He underscored the importance of county-national government partnerships in driving development, assuring residents that his administration would continue to support projects that benefit the community.
The occasion was also attended by Siaya Deputy County Commissioner, Robert Ng’etich, County Secretary, Joseph Ogutu and a host of members of the county assembly.
