Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has subtly responded to recent criticism of the Social Health Authority (SHA), reaffirming the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare infrastructure and improving access to quality medical services across the country.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the ongoing Balambala Sub-County Hospital project in Garissa County on Saturday, June 13, Duale said the national government remains focused on ensuring equitable healthcare access, particularly in historically underserved regions.
The CS pointed to the Balambala hospital project as evidence of the government’s continued investment in strengthening healthcare systems under the Universal Health Coverage agenda.
The 150-bed facility, which is currently 70 percent complete, is expected to be upgraded to a Level 5 hospital upon completion. Once operational, it will provide specialised outpatient and inpatient services, surgical care, maternity and newborn healthcare, as well as enhanced diagnostic services.
The project is expected to significantly reduce the need for residents of Garissa and the wider North Eastern region to travel long distances in search of advanced medical treatment. The facility is awaiting commissioning by William Ruto once construction is finalized.
“The completion of the Balambala hospital will not only be a milestone for Garissa County and the larger North Eastern region but also a significant step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage,” Duale said.
He further directed the contractor to ensure quality standards are maintained and that the project is completed within the agreed timelines.
Remarks Follow Viral Governor Comments
Duale’s remarks come days after Nathif Jama sparked debate over the effectiveness of SHA following a viral video in which he was seen assisting an ailing woman.
In the video, the governor handed the woman Ksh1,000 and advised her to seek treatment at a private medical facility.
“Go to Dr. Amal and get treatment, there is no SHA here,” Jama was heard saying.
The comments attracted criticism from several leaders, who argued that healthcare service delivery in public hospitals is largely a county government responsibility.
Among those who responded was Abdikadir Hussein, who challenged the governor to take responsibility for healthcare services under his administration.
“This means that services in public hospitals are so low. Before he says SHA is not working, he should be responsible for the functions under him. You can’t blame SHA because of your own fault,” Hussein said during a fundraiser in Bura Tana.
During the inspection visit, Duale was accompanied by Garissa County Executive Committee Member for Health Ahmednadhir Omar and other local leaders as they assessed progress on the hospital project.
