Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has unveiled plans for a major expansion that would increase its capacity to 2,000 beds, in a move aimed at strengthening specialised healthcare, medical training and research services across western Kenya.
The proposed development, outlined in a feasibility study and master plan presented to the hospital’s Executive Committee (EXCOM), is expected to be implemented in phases to meet growing demand for advanced medical care in the region.
The study, prepared by Arprim Consultants, includes architectural designs and cost estimates for the project. It was presented by the firm’s Principal Architect, Jared Momanyi.
Under the first phase, JOOTRH plans to construct an eight-storey hospital with a capacity of 500 beds.
The facility will feature medical and surgical wards, a 20-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a 20-bed High Dependency Unit (HDU), a renal support centre, a 28-bed Accident and Emergency complex, 20 operating theatres, specialised outpatient clinics, a rehabilitation centre and a 15-station dental unit.
Diagnostic and support services, including radiology, laboratory and physiotherapy departments, will also be expanded, alongside new administrative offices.
Hospital officials said the building’s rooftop would house solar energy infrastructure, water storage facilities and a helipad to improve operational efficiency and emergency response capabilities.
A second phase of the project will add a further 600 beds, together with supporting infrastructure such as a Doctors’ Plaza and additional clinical support services.
Once completed, the development is expected to increase the hospital’s capacity to 2,000 beds, making it one of Kenya’s largest referral and teaching hospitals.
The master plan also proposes wider infrastructure improvements, including staff housing under the Affordable Housing Programme, expanded research and training facilities, a modern logistics centre, additional parking spaces and improved traffic management systems within the hospital complex.
According to hospital management, the expansion is intended to support the creation of an integrated medical city capable of delivering specialised treatment while advancing medical education and research.
Members of the Executive Committee reviewed the proposals and provided recommendations aimed at refining the designs and ensuring the project aligns with the institution’s long-term strategic objectives.
JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Joshua Clinton Okise praised the consultants for developing what he described as a comprehensive roadmap for the hospital’s future growth.
He said the institution was targeting completion of the first phase by 2030 as part of efforts to enhance specialised healthcare services and strengthen JOOTRH’s position as a leading referral, teaching and research centre in the region.
He planned expansion comes as the hospital continues to serve a growing population across western Kenya and neighbouring counties, amid rising demand for specialised healthcare and medical training services.
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