By TCD TEAM
The Kitui County Health Ministry has come under scrutiny from Members of the County Assembly over non-operational health facilities, healthcare funding and preparedness to handle snakebite emergencies across the county.
Health and Sanitation CECM Ruth Koki appeared before a joint sitting of three Assembly committees at Zombe Huduma Centre on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, accompanied by three chief officers to respond to concerns raised by Mutonguni MCA Benjamin Ndambu Mulandi over non-operational facilities in his ward.
Koki told the legislators that some facilities, including Kangondi Dispensary, had already been operationalised, adding that the county was using a phased approach to reopen others, prioritising underserved villages. She cited the proximity of Utoo Dispensary to Tulia and Nzinia health facilities as part of the considerations guiding the process, while assuring MCAs that the remaining facilities would be addressed progressively as funds become available.
The committee also heard that the county was prioritising funding in the 2027/2028 financial year to acquire land and relocate Mulundi Dispensary in Kyangwithya East Ward, which currently operates within a school compound. On healthcare financing, Koki reported revenue accruals of KSh1.387 billion against actual collections of KSh1.031 billion as of September 30, 2026, under the Facility Improvement Financing Act, 2026.
On snakebite preparedness, the Health Ministry assured the committees that health facilities across all 40 wards were stocked with anti-venom drugs. Koki urged residents to seek immediate medical attention after snakebites and avoid home remedies or delays that could cost lives. The joint sitting was chaired by Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya, Deputy Speaker Christopher Nzilu Nzioka and Health Committee Chairperson Bernard Mwangangi Munyasya, highlighting the Assembly’s focus on accountability and access to essential healthcare services.
