President William Ruto has called on the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to guarantee that public health facilities are consistently stocked with essential medicines. Speaking at the 60th anniversary celebrations of Loglogo Africa Inland Church (AIC) in Laisamis Constituency, Marsabit County, the President emphasized that direct delivery of drugs and medical supplies to hospitals, bypassing county stores, will ensure uninterrupted services under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.
Addressing KEMSA CEO Dr. Waqo Ejersa, President Ruto stressed: “We don’t want to hear stories of lack of drugs in our health facilities. KEMSA must ensure an uninterrupted supply of drugs to our hospitals.” He noted that adequate funding has been provided to facilitate direct deliveries and urged Kenyans to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access free primary healthcare services at public, private, and faith-based health facilities.
The President also highlighted the government’s removal of decades-long extra ID vetting requirements, particularly in border counties such as Marsabit, describing the previous practice as discriminatory. He encouraged residents to register for national identity cards, now available free of charge, stressing that all Kenyans should have equal access to essential documents regardless of ethnic, religious, or political background.
President Ruto further outlined key development plans for Marsabit County, including:
- KSh4.5 billion allocated for affordable housing, fresh produce markets, and student hostels for public colleges.
- KSh1.6 billion dedicated to expanding electricity connections for households.
- The push for Parliament to establish a National Infrastructure Fund to support the construction of at least 10,000 km of new tarmac roads nationwide, requiring approximately KSh1.5 trillion.
Responding to requests from local leaders for additional administrative units, the President directed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to review proposals for the creation of new sub-counties.
President Ruto also praised the Church’s role in local development and mission work, reaffirming the government’s commitment to collaboration with religious organizations to tackle community challenges. CS Murkomen added that joint efforts between church leaders and government officials had significantly contributed to resolving inter-clan conflicts and restoring peace in the county.
Governor Mohamud Mohamud and local MPs expressed gratitude to the government for initiating these development projects, acknowledging the previous marginalization of Marsabit County. Governor Mohamud affirmed the county leadership’s support for President Ruto, citing his dedication to national transformation.
