By Sharon Onyango, CGSÂ
Siaya County has taken a decisive step toward strengthening primary healthcare following the official launch of the upgraded Tingare Health Centre in Ugunja Sub-County and Nyangu Health Centre in Ugenya Sub-County. The twin projects mark a significant milestone in expanding access to quality, affordable medical services at the grassroots level.
The facilities were officially unveiled by Governor James Orengo, capping months of construction that began with groundbreaking ceremonies on March 20, 2025 for Tingare and December 4, 2025 for Nyangu. Both events were attended by Peter Ndegwa of the Safaricom Foundation, underscoring the strong public-private partnership behind the initiative.
The projects were implemented through a strategic collaboration between the County Government of Siaya and the M-PESA Foundation programme, reflecting a shared commitment to delivering modern healthcare infrastructure to underserved communities. The partnership highlights the growing role of corporate philanthropy in complementing devolved health services and accelerating progress toward universal health coverage.
At the heart of the upgrades is an ambitious push to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Both health centres now feature modern maternity wings designed to offer safer delivery environments and reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths. In addition, fully equipped laboratory complexes have been installed to enhance diagnostic capacity and enable early detection and treatment of diseases.
The new facilities are fitted with advanced diagnostic equipment, including biochemistry analysers, full haemogram machines, high-powered microscopes and digital weighing scales. To enhance sustainability and lower operational costs, solar-powered water pumping systems have also been installed, ensuring reliable water supply while reducing energy expenses.
Speaking during the launch, Governor Orengo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening health systems across the county. He emphasized that no woman should lose her life while giving life and called on Community Health Promoters to intensify early referrals, encourage antenatal clinic attendance and champion preventive healthcare practices at the household level. He noted that strong primary healthcare facilities are essential in reducing pressure on referral hospitals and improving overall health outcomes.
Chief Officer for Health Dr. Omondi Owino urged residents to take full advantage of the upgraded facilities and embrace preventive healthcare services. He called on Community Health Promoters to scale up household visits, promote early antenatal care, ensure timely referrals and educate families on routine immunization and regular health check-ups. Dr. Owino also commended healthcare workers for their dedication and encouraged them to maintain professionalism and compassionate service delivery.
The launch of Tingare and Nyangu Health Centres underscores Siaya County’s sustained drive to advance universal health coverage and ensure every resident has access to modern, responsive and high-quality healthcare services. Accompanied by CS Joseph Ogutu, CO Governance Walter Okelo and Director of Public Health Dr. Ken Oruenjo, Governor Orengo hailed the projects as a clear demonstration that strategic partnerships and focused leadership can transform community health infrastructure and improve lives across the county.
