The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations has toured Kahawa Garrison in Nairobi County to inspect ongoing projects.
The Committee toured the Nairobi Regional Hospital (NRH), bulk fuel storage facilities, and ongoing renovation of officers’ accommodation.
Led by Hon. Nelson Koech, Members were briefed by Col. Z. I Golo, Camp Commander, Brig. Dr. Mwika, Chief Medical Officer alongside representatives from the Ministry of Defence.
The Kahawa Garrison was established on December 12, 1964 and traces its roots to the British colonial era. The Garrison now serves as a vital hub for KDF operations.
According to documents scrutinised by the Committee, the Nairobi Regional Hospital (NRH) officially opened on April 7, 2022 and serves KDF personnel, their families and veterans.
The Hospital is a Level IV facility with a capacity of 150 beds. Members of the Committee inspected equipment within the hospital including six ICU beds, advanced diagnostic tools, CT scanners and ultrasound services, x-ray machines and four dialysis units.
Members of the Committee lauded the wide range of services offered, including general consultations, maternity care, isolation wards, diagnostic imaging, dental services, and a 24-hour laboratory and employs 10 civilian consultants, alongside general practitioners, specialized nurses, and support staff.
As at November 2024, the Hospital had served 39,312 outpatients and 2,054 inpatients.
Lawmakers noted that while the project is 100% complete, with 83% of its total project cost still outstanding.
Legislators sought clarity on the pending bills including medical equipment expenses, and the hospital’s revenue generation since its launch.
“Has the hospital started generating its own income? The goal of NRH should be self reliance,” said Hon. Martha Wangari said.
Members of the Defence Committee also toured ongoing works including a parade ground and the bulk fuel storage facility.
The Committee further inspected renovations to Officers’ accommodations which commenced in November 2023 and are 70% complete, with delays attributed to exchequer funding challenges.
Committee Chair, Hon. Nelson Koech acknowleged the efficient utilisation of funds and committed to ensure timely disbursement of budgetary allocations for the completion of critical projects.
