A political commentator, Brian Odhiambo, has raised questions over healthcare development in Homa Bay County, contrasting the Magina Level 4 Hospital in North Kabuoch Ward with a Level 4 hospital in Kikuyu, Kiambu County.
Odhiambo used the comparison to question the pace and quality of development in Homa Bay under Governor Gladys Wanga, arguing that residents in the county have continued to face challenges despite successive governments.
“Magina Level 4 Hospital in North Kabuoch Ward, Homa Bay County versus Kikuyu Level 4 Hospital in Kiambu County,” Odhiambo said.
His remarks come as Magina remains among the health projects listed by the Homa Bay County Government. County budget documents have previously listed the construction of Magina Level 4 Hospital among projects planned for North Kabuoch Ward.
The Kenya Master Health Facility Registry also lists Magina Level 4 Hospital as a public Level 4 facility in Homa Bay County.
A wider shot of Magina Level 4 hospital. Photo/@brian.odhiambo.1441/Facebook
Odhiambo raises marginalisation concerns
Odhiambo linked the health debate to what he described as a wider history of marginalisation in the region.
“We have been marginalized since 1963,” he said.
He then turned his criticism to the political leadership associated with Homa Bay, saying residents should not expect President William Ruto or former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to automatically deliver the political change they seek.
“Ruto tam na Orengo can’t take us to Gachagua,” Odhiambo said.
The statement comes as political alignments ahead of the 2027 General Election continue to reshape debates around development and leadership in different parts of the country.
Kikuyu hospital comparison
The comparison with Kikuyu is particularly focused on the services and capacity available to residents.
The Ministry of Health’s health facility registry lists Kikuyu Sub County Hospital as a Level 4 public facility with 132 inpatient beds, including 108 general beds and 24 maternity beds. It also has one general theatre and one maternity theatre.
The registry separately lists PCEA Kikuyu Hospital as a Level 4 facility with 218 inpatient beds.
A wider shot of Kikuyu Level 4 hospital. Photo/@brian.odhiambo.1441/Facebook
Kiambu County has also been expanding its Level 4 hospital network, with county documents listing construction of Kikuyu Level 4 Hospital among its health infrastructure projects.
Odhiambo’s comparison therefore places healthcare infrastructure at the centre of a broader political question: whether Homa Bay residents are receiving development at the pace and standard they expect from their county leadership.
The remarks are likely to add pressure on Governor Wanga’s administration over the delivery and operationalisation of health projects across Homa Bay as the county enters a politically charged period ahead of 2027.
