Ruto Lays Foundation Stone for Chebunyo Mother and Child Hospital in Bomet

President William Ruto on Saturday continued his development tour of the Rift Valley, laying the foundation stone for the Chebunyo Mother and Child Hospital in Bomet County.

The hospital is among several development projects lined up during the President’s visit to the county as he continues his tour of the region.

Speaking during the launch, Ruto reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving maternal and child healthcare, including supporting mothers to achieve the recommended six months of exclusive breastfeeding.

The President also defended the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA), arguing that the new health financing system has improved access to healthcare services.

Focus on Maternal and Child Healthcare

The Chebunyo Mother and Child Hospital is expected to strengthen access to healthcare services for mothers and children in the area once completed.

Ruto used the occasion to highlight the government’s broader healthcare agenda, particularly maternal and child health and access to affordable medical services.

The President has made healthcare reforms a key component of his administration’s development programme, with SHA replacing NHIF as part of efforts to restructure health insurance and expand coverage.

Ruto Continues Rift Valley Development Tour

Ruto’s appearance in Bomet came a day after he toured parts of Bomet and neighbouring Kericho counties, where he launched and inspected several development projects.

The President has used the tour to highlight projects in infrastructure, healthcare and other sectors while also defending his administration’s economic record.

His visits to the Rift Valley come as the government steps up its engagement with communities across the region ahead of the 2027 General Election.

President Defends Economic Record

On Friday, Ruto defended the government’s borrowing record, arguing that Kenya’s debt has increased at a slower pace under his administration than during previous governments.

He also pointed to improvements in inflation and stability in the foreign exchange market as indicators of an economy that he said is becoming more stable.

The President has repeatedly defended his economic policies against criticism over taxation, the cost of living and public debt, maintaining that the government inherited significant fiscal challenges and is implementing measures aimed at stabilising the economy.

The Bomet hospital project therefore comes against the backdrop of a wider government push to showcase development achievements while making the case for its economic and healthcare reforms.

As Ruto’s Rift Valley tour continues, attention is expected to remain on the delivery of development projects, healthcare access and the administration’s economic agenda.