Ruto launches KDF hospital in Lanet, opens doors to civilians

KENYA – President William Ruto has officially opened the first Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) medical facility under the Ulinzi Prime Health Services Fund (UPHSF), now accessible to civilians.

The hospital, located at the Lanet Barracks in Nakuru County, marks a major milestone in the government’s push for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, President Ruto praised the KDF for its efforts to share its healthcare services with the general public. “This initiative shows our commitment to making quality healthcare available to all Kenyans,” he said.

The newly opened Lanet facility has a 150-bed capacity and is part of a larger plan to make about half of KDF’s 780 hospital beds available to civilians.

The facility will offer services to retired KDF personnel, their families, and referred civilians in need of specialized care.

The UPHSF was launched by the Defence Council in July 2022 to allow civilian access to select KDF hospitals on a fee-for-service basis.

The goal is to improve public access to medical care while also boosting the sustainability of military health facilities.

The program is expected to generate approximately KSh 10.21 billion in five years, funding the modernization of KDF hospitals across the country.

President Ruto emphasized that opening military health resources to the public not only helps in achieving UHC but also ensures better use of existing infrastructure. “This is about maximizing what we already have to serve the nation more effectively,” he said.

The initiative supports the broader government plan to integrate military assets into national development programs and encourage collaboration between public institutions.

KDF troops in DRC donate water tank and medical supplies

In a separate act of humanitarian support, KDF soldiers stationed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) donated vital medical supplies and a water tank to Zuma Health Centre in North Kivu.

The donation, made on April 16 in celebration of Easter, is aimed at boosting healthcare services in an area affected by conflict and displacement.

The 10,000-litre water tank will improve the centre’s water supply and sanitation, while the medical supplies—ranging from essential drugs to IV fluids—will enhance emergency care and daily treatment.

During the handover, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, the KDF Contingent Commander, highlighted the importance of civil-military cooperation.

“We are committed to not only providing security but also supporting local communities through meaningful partnerships,” he said.

Local leaders and health officials expressed their gratitude. “This donation will greatly improve hygiene and patient care,” said Judas Mahamba, the clinic’s head.

Chief Joshua Kapisa added that the initiative followed consultations with KDF troops and praised it for building trust and encouraging peace through information-sharing.

KDF continues to be a key player in MONUSCO’s mission, supporting peace, protection, and humanitarian aid in eastern DRC.