President William Ruto on Wednesday commissioned a new 150-bed capacity medical facility at the Lanet Barracks in Nakuru County, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The hospital, part of the Kenya Defence Forces’ Ulinzi Prime Health Services Fund (UPHSF) initiative, is now open to both military personnel and civilians. It will offer specialized healthcare services including Intensive Care Unit (ICU), renal analysis, and advanced surgical procedures.
Speaking during the commissioning of General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets at the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet, President Ruto commended KDF for expanding their medical services to the public.
He noted that leveraging military medical infrastructure for civilian benefit not only optimizes available resources but also bolsters the country’s overall healthcare system.“The initiative is a significant step towards Universal Health Coverage,” said President Ruto. “Opening KDF health facilities to civilians ensures that more Kenyans can access quality, specialized care without the barrier of high costs or distance.”The Head of State emphasized that the collaboration between civilian and military healthcare systems reflects the government’s commitment to making healthcare affordable and accessible to all Kenyans.
The Ulinzi Prime Health Services Fund was established to enhance healthcare service delivery by the KDF and now forms part of the national agenda to strengthen the health sector through public-private and inter-agency partnerships.
The newly launched facility in Lanet is expected to serve thousands of residents in Nakuru and surrounding counties, easing pressure on public hospitals and offering advanced care closer to communities.
