By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
1 May 2026 - Residents of Mandera are set to benefit from a major boost in healthcare services following a series of announcements by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, who pledged expanded investment in hospital infrastructure across the region.
Speaking during the official opening of Jamia Mosque in Takaba, CS Duale revealed that all hospitals in Mandera West will soon be equipped by the Ministry of Health Kenya, with a strong focus on maternity wings.
The initiative, he said, will later be extended to sub-county hospitals across the entire county.
“Our priority is to ensure that every mother has access to safe and quality care,” Duale said.
“We are strengthening maternity units to prevent cases of negligence and reduce maternal deaths, which remain a serious concern in this region.”
The CS further disclosed that the Kenya government has secured funding from Italy to construct 14 international-standard hospitals across the country. Mandera is among the beneficiaries, with Mandera County Referral Hospital set to be upgraded to a national referral facility at a cost of KSh 900 million.
“This investment is part of our broader plan to ensure equitable healthcare access for all Kenyans, regardless of where they live,” he added.
Duale dismissed critics opposing national development projects in marginalized regions, insisting that every part of the country deserves equal attention.
“All Kenyans deserve equal opportunities from the national government. Those opposing development in northeastern Kenya must understand that this region has been part of Kenya since independence,” he said.
“The real question is why previous administrations failed to act, and why now there is resistance when progress is finally being made.”
He credited the current administration under William Ruto for addressing years of neglect and discrimination in the North Eastern region.
“The government led by President Ruto has done a lot to reverse decades of marginalization. Development is no longer a promise it is happening,” Duale stated.
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He also urged residents to support the President in the upcoming 2027 General Election, noting that continued progress depends on sustained political goodwill.
The remarks were made during a colorful ceremony marking the grand opening of Jamia Mosque in Takaba, which drew hundreds of residents, religious leaders, and local stakeholders.
The modern mosque is expected to serve as a center for worship, education, and community engagement.
“I reiterate the call for unity and peace in Northern Kenya,” Duale said.
“Let us uphold the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) on tolerance, compassion, and cohesion,” the CS added.
Also present at the event was Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif, who echoed the CS’s sentiments and urged residents to rally behind the current administration.
“This is the only government that truly understands the value and needs of the Northern region,” Governor Khalif said.
“All promises made by President Ruto will be delivered within the stipulated timelines.”
The developments mark a significant step toward improving healthcare and social infrastructure in Mandera, a region that has long grappled with limited access to essential services.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale together with Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif addressing the public in Takaba, Mandera West.