KENYA – President William Ruto has inaugurated the state-of-the-art Billy Graham Memorial Cardiothoracic Centre at AGC Tenwek Mission Hospital, Bomet County.
Valued at approximately Sh4.5 billion (US $35 million), this facility marks a critical milestone for cardiothoracic care, offering specialized treatment for heart and lung diseases to both Kenyans and patients from across East Africa.
Built with support from Samaritan’s Purse and the World Gospel Mission, two organizations dedicated to health-focused missions in Kenya, the new center brings essential services closer to communities, eliminating the need for costly referrals abroad.
“We are grateful for the partnership with faith-based organizations who have been instrumental in making healthcare more accessible and affordable to Kenyans,” President Ruto stated during the launch ceremony.
Expanding access to specialized cardiac care
AGC Tenwek Mission Hospital has long been recognized for its high-quality services, especially in rural settings, and this new cardiothoracic center will further enhance its ability to manage complex surgeries.
The facility is expected to drastically increase its capacity, aiming to perform up to 3,000 open-heart procedures annually, a significant increase from the current 300.
Dr. Russ White, the Cardiothoracic Centre’s director, emphasized the center’s critical role in tackling severe conditions, stating, “The facility will address critical healthcare challenges such as esophageal cancer, rheumatic heart disease, and congenital heart issues, benefitting not only Kenya but the wider continent.”
This cutting-edge facility features 176 beds, six cardiothoracic theatres, a 32-bed post-anesthesia care unit, and 52 intensive care units (ICUs), all equipped with advanced diagnostic technology, including CT and X-ray machines.
The hospital has also dedicated specialized units for post-operative care, catheterization, and endoscopy procedures, designed to offer holistic treatment for heart and lung conditions.
Boost to Kenya’s healthcare capacity
As part of the unveiling, President Ruto announced a plan to ease visa and work permit requirements for missionaries, recognizing their contributions to Kenya’s healthcare sector.
“This facility signifies the trust and confidence our international partners have in Kenya’s healthcare system,” Ruto noted.
According to the Ministry of Health, cardiovascular disease accounts for approximately 25% of hospital admissions in Kenya, placing immense strain on the nation’s healthcare system.
The new Cardiothoracic Centre will help alleviate this burden, providing specialized care for thousands who would otherwise have limited options for treatment.
Apart from providing advanced healthcare services, the center is set to become a vital training hub, enhancing the capabilities of local healthcare professionals in managing heart diseases.
AGC Tenwek Hospital Acting CEO, Mr. Benjamin Siele, highlighted the broader impact of the facility, saying, “This new cardiothoracic centre not only expands our healthcare services but also creates employment for over 300 Kenyans and fosters medical tourism, benefiting the regional economy.”
Global support and future prospects
Mr. Siele emphasized the mission’s long-term vision: “The Cardiothoracic Centre is part of our broader commitment to accessible healthcare, and it reflects our dedication to professional, affordable service.”
Named in honor of the late American evangelist Billy Graham, the center reflects the support of American donors and faith-based organizations, which enabled its construction and equipping with cutting-edge technology.
The hospital also recently launched a Sh130 million (US $1 million) accident and emergency center, reinforcing its role as a premier healthcare provider in Kenya’s southwestern region.
Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Debra Barasa applauded the facility’s opening, emphasizing the investment potential in Kenya’s health sector and the nation’s increasing capacity for specialized healthcare.
She noted, “This center signals to investors worldwide that Kenya is ready for meaningful healthcare partnerships.”
With cardiovascular diseases increasingly prevalent in Kenya, the new facility will address both urgent and complex needs.
