While the Department of Health, led by CECM Dr. K’Onyango Martin provides strong technical direction, it is Governor Orengo’s commitment and coordination that have accelerated implementation of life-changing programs, including emergency medical services, hospital upgrades, and community-level health interventions.

Revolutionizing Emergency Care with Ambulance and Referral Services

A flagship achievement under Governor Orengo’s administration is the revitalization of ambulance and referral services. The deployment of four modern, fully equipped ambulances—manned by specially trained drivers skilled in critical care handling and defensive driving—has vastly improved emergency response across the county.

At the heart of this transformation is a centralized Emergency Call Centre located at Siaya County Referral Hospital (SCRH), which utilizes live GPS tracking to ensure rapid response, minimal delays, and wide-area coverage. This system has proven especially critical in time-sensitive situations such as road accidents, maternal emergencies, and acute medical cases.

To further support maternal and neonatal health, the “Mama Link” initiative offers free referral services to expectant mothers, reducing delays in accessing skilled birth attendance. This initiative is underpinned by the county’s newly launched Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Medical Services Guides, providing a structured four-year roadmap for a more resilient, coordinated emergency care system.

Ambira Hospital: A Rising Center of Excellence

Ambira Sub County Hospital has undergone a transformative upgrade, positioning itself as a regional hub for specialized care. For the first time in its history, Ambira is offering advanced surgical services, including lifesaving caesarean sections, and radiology services such as MCU (Micturating Cystourethrogram) scans and other diagnostic imaging.

This expansion means residents of Ugunja, Ugenya, and even neighboring counties like Busia and Kakamega no longer need to travel long distances to Siaya County Referral Hospital for critical services. The ripple effects are tangible: mothers like Roselyne Ogutu are now giving birth safely and closer to home, and patients like Ruth Achieng are receiving timely diagnoses that once seemed out of reach.

Expanding Eye Care and Modernizing Health Facilities

Siaya County has also made notable strides in eye care, expanding services to reduce preventable blindness and restore sight for thousands. Through enhanced outreach, mobile clinics, and new equipment, specialized eye care has become more accessible even in rural areas.

Significant infrastructure investments have bolstered facility capacity at all levels. The Yala Complex now features a modern surgical theatre, providing a platform for complex procedures previously referred to higher-level hospitals. Facilities such as Bar Olengo, Urenga, and Bar Ndeng have been upgraded with expanded outpatient services, new maternity wings, and improved diagnostic capabilities—bringing comprehensive care closer to communities.

Strategic Partnerships and a Holistic Development Approach

Governor Orengo’s leadership has been pivotal in mobilizing resources and forging strategic partnerships with national health agencies, private sector stakeholders, and international development organizations. These collaborations have enabled:

The construction and equipping of new health centers.

Rollout of digital health record systems for efficiency.

Training and deployment of additional healthcare workers.

Supply chain reforms ensuring availability of essential medicines.

Beyond healthcare, the Governor’s integrated development approach—linking health, infrastructure, education, and livelihoods—is creating the foundation for sustainable well-being and economic resilience across Siaya.

A County on the Rise

The transformation of Siaya’s health sector under Governor James Orengo is more than just bricks and mortar—it is about restoring trust, access, and dignity in public healthcare. With the steadfast support of departmental heads like Dr. K’Onyango, Siaya County is emerging as a benchmark in decentralized, patient-centered care in Kenya.

The journey continues, but the progress is undeniable. From life-saving ambulances to state-of-the-art theatres, Siaya is rising—one healthy step at a time.