Progress Updates on Kakamega’s Major Infrastructure Projects

Kakamega County is witnessing significant infrastructural advancements, particularly with the ongoing developments of the Kakamega Level Six Referral Hospital and Bukhungu International Stadium. Governor Fernandes Barasa recently emphasized the urgency for local political leaders to move beyond political maneuvering regarding these essential projects and focus on their timely execution and public benefits.

During an inspection tour of these ambitious projects, Governor Barasa expressed optimism that both the Sh10 billion hospital and the Sh6.6 billion stadium would see completion within the next six months. He called for unity among local leaders, urging them to refrain from divisive politics and instead collaborate for the development of the region.

“Those critics propagating propaganda on social media that there is no work going on, I want to tell them to stop and instead unite in pushing for development for our people,” he stated. Barasa encouraged skeptics to visit the sites to observe the significant progress achieved thus far.

Emphasizing support for ongoing projects, the governor pointed to the collaborative effort with the national government, stating, “I want to urge the people of Kakamega and Kenyans at large to support what is good and depoliticise what the government is intervening to ensure all the projects that have been taken up are completed.”

He revealed that his administration has conducted a comprehensive inventory of equipment in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, which is crucial as they prepare for the hospital’s commissioning set for August this year. The hospital aims to deliver not only healthcare services but also create approximately 2,000 jobs for locals, while offering practical training opportunities for medical students from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology.

The Kakamega Level Six Referral Hospital, which commenced construction in 2016, has recently received an additional Sh2 billion from the national government to ensure its completion. “Pending bills owed to the former contractor will be paid concurrently as the works proceed at the facility,” Barasa assured.

Regarding the Bukhungu Stadium, Governor Barasa noted that it is currently over 50% complete. “We have agreed with the contractor to put in place an accelerated programme so that we can meet our target,” he added. The county government has also committed additional funds to ensure that construction remains on track.

This stadium project is a partnership between the county and national governments through the Ministry of Sports. Governor Barasa expressed gratitude to President Ruto for his ongoing support in ensuring the project’s timely completion.

The county’s financial commitment includes an additional Sh600 million, reflecting the administration’s dedication to making these projects a success. Furthermore, Barasa highlighted the necessity of increasing the workforce on-site to allow multiple activities to run simultaneously, crucial for meeting project timelines.

Looking ahead, Barasa expressed confidence that once completed, Bukhungu Stadium could serve as a venue for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament. The stadium had previously hosted the Cecafa Under-18 Championships, and officials are optimistic that it will be part of the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.

Financial scrutiny shows that the county government has invested Sh875 million into the stadium’s first two phases, which encompassed constructing the county government offices, VIP rooms, and necessary sports facilities. Future phases will focus on essential elements like lighting and public amenities to meet the required standards for international tournaments.