Lucas Barasa and Beryl Wambani
27 July 2011
Prime Minister Raila Odinga has ordered changes at Pumwani Maternity Hospital after paying a surprise visit.
The maternity hospital, Kenya’s largest with 80 babies delivered daily, is in pathetic condition.
The hospital, which is congested with two to four patients sharing a bed, has a shortage of doctors and staff.
Equipment, including in the operating theatre, is defective.
Mr Odinga directed the ministries of Local Government, Public Health and Medical Services and the City Council of Nairobi to come up with a plan for a complete overhaul of the hospital.
“They should report to me within two weeks,” the Prime Minister said.
More than 10 women have been detained at the hospital, some for as long as a month, for non-payment of fees.
Ms Ruth Barasa has been at the hospital since she gave birth to twins on June 7 after failing to pay Sh20,000 fees.
Ms Mercy Adhiambo said doctors had refused to carry out an operation on her as she could not afford Sh1,200 for a scan, while Ms Beth Wairimu, who needs an emergency operation, was told the machine was not functioning.
Ms Wairimu shares a bed with another woman although the hospital charges Sh400 per person per night.
Mr Odinga, who was taken round by Medical Superintendent Omondi Kumba, described the hospital’s state as “terrible and shameful.”
AllAfrica – All the Time
Read More:
Raila Orders Instant Change At Hospital