Siaya County has taken a bold step toward transforming its healthcare and sports infrastructure with the launch of two landmark projects, the expansion of the Siaya County Referral Hospital Complex and the completion phase of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium.
In a ceremony attended by top national and county officials, construction officially began on a new Ksh. 500 million inpatient block at the referral hospital. The facility forms part of a Ksh. 1.7 billion master plan aimed at turning the hospital into a modern, three-wing complex with a 500-bed capacity.
According to the County Government Ksh. 300 million has been allocated for the project in the current financial year. The new block will integrate with the already completed surgical theatre, ensuring continuity of services while creating space for advanced medical care.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon. Soipan Tuya who presided over the groundbreaking, said the upgraded hospital will serve as a regional hub for specialized treatment reducing the need for long-distance travel to cities like Eldoret or even across the border into Uganda.
“The new facility will provide specialized care, create jobs for our young people, and deliver better healthcare for the people of Siaya,” said Tuya. “These two projects we are launching today show the government’s clear commitment to uplifting communities.”
Governor James Orengo echoed the sentiment calling the hospital project a direct response to the longstanding healthcare needs of residents in the Lake Victoria region.
“With this upgraded facility, that burden will finally be lifted, and healthcare will change here for the better,” Orengo said.
Health Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga urged residents to enroll in the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access services once the facility is operational.
“Already 40% of Siaya residents have registered with SHA. We encourage more to sign up. This is about fairness and access ensuring no one is left behind,” he said.
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium to Reach FIFA Standards
In a separate but related development, the county also launched the final phase of construction for the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium which will be completed with the help of Ksh. 550 million pledged by President William Ruto.
Once finished the stadium’s capacity will grow from 5,500 to 20,000 seats with the addition of new terraces, roofing, and improved infrastructure. The facility is expected to meet FIFA standards positioning Siaya as a major sporting destination in Nyanza region.
“This stadium once complete will be the best outside Nairobi in terms of design and planning,” said Orengo.
The total cost of the stadium is Ksh. 900 million with Ksh. 700 million already spent on the first phase.
Hon. Tuya emphasized the stadium’s potential to promote sports, culture, and economic development:
“The upgraded infrastructure will enable Siaya to host athletics, football, and rugby tournaments. It will also serve as a venue for concerts and community events — creating jobs and income for locals.”
She also addressed concerns about the Kenya Defence Forces’ (KDF) involvement in the projects, clarifying their role is strictly technical.
“Let me be clear KDF doesn’t take away jobs from our young people and women. Their role is to offer technical support and supervision to ensure quick turnaround, quality control, and strict adherence to timelines,” she said.
The twin projects mark a new chapter in Siaya’s development journey, promising improved healthcare, enhanced sports infrastructure, and expanded economic opportunities for the region’s residents.
