Access to quality and timely surgical care is steadily improving in Kitui County Referral Hospital following the installation of modern equipment at the facility’s eye theatre, a development that is already changing lives across Kitui County.
For years, many patients in Kitui seeking specialized eye treatment had to travel long distances to facilities in Nairobi or neighbouring counties—often at great cost and risk. Today, that narrative is shifting.
The newly equipped theatre is now capable of handling both minor and major eye surgeries, significantly reducing referrals and ensuring patients receive care closer to home. Beyond ophthalmic procedures, the facility is also expected to support critical surgeries, including maternity-related interventions, easing pressure on existing theatres.
“This is a game changer for us,” said Muthoki Nduku, a resident of Ikanga who recently underwent a successful eye procedure at the hospital. “I was preparing to travel to Nairobi because I thought that was the only option. Now I have been treated here at home, and I am recovering well.”
Another resident, Peter Musyoka from Kitui Central, described the upgrade as a major relief for ordinary wananchi. “Transport and accommodation costs in Nairobi are too high. With these services here, we are saving money and time, and more people can now seek treatment early.”
Drawing from her medical laboratory background, Lynn Kitwan said the installation of modern surgical equipment marks a critical step in strengthening the county’s healthcare system.
“According to Lyn Kitwan, the Chief Officer for Public Health and Sanitation in the County Government of Kitui, this upgrade reflects the kind of progress we need in building a responsive health system. Having started my career as a laboratory technologist and worked in advanced diagnostic environments, including at Lancet Group of Laboratories, I understand the importance of precision, timely diagnosis, and integrated care. This facility will not only reduce referrals but also ensure patients receive timely surgical interventions, which is key to better outcomes,” she said.
Health workers at the facility say the new equipment has enhanced efficiency, reduced waiting times, and improved surgical outcomes.
A nurse at the theatre noted that the availability of modern tools has also boosted staff morale and confidence in delivering specialized care.
“This upgrade means we can attend to more patients and handle complex cases that we previously had to refer,” the nurse said. “It is improving both patient outcomes and our capacity as a hospital.”
The milestone reflects ongoing efforts by the administration of Governor Julius Malombe to strengthen healthcare infrastructure by investing in modern equipment and expanding access to specialized services.
County health officials say the improved theatre will help decongest other surgical units and enhance emergency response, particularly for mothers requiring urgent surgical intervention. Delays in accessing such services have historically contributed to complications, a challenge the county now aims to address.
Residents believe the impact will go beyond healthcare, restoring confidence in public facilities and encouraging more people to seek early treatment.“This is development we can see and feel,” said Grace Mutua, a mother of three from Kitui Rural. “When hospitals are well equipped, lives are saved. We are grateful that these services are now within reach.”
With the upgraded eye theatre now operational, Kitui County is taking a significant step toward achieving accessible, efficient, and high-quality healthcare—bringing life-changing services closer to the people who need them most.
