Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe on Friday commissioned the Gatoroni Dispensary in Tharaka Ward, Mwingi North Sub-County, marking a major milestone in the county’s efforts to expand access to quality healthcare in remote areas.
Residents of Tharaka Ward turned out in large numbers to witness the official opening of the long-awaited health facility, which now stands as a symbol of fulfilled promises and people-centred development under the current county administration.
The dispensary, which was constructed and fully operationalized in September 2025, was among the key commitments made by Governor Malombe to the residents of the area during his development agenda for Mwingi North. Its completion and commissioning have been welcomed as a major boost to local healthcare services.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Governor Malombe described the facility as a transformative project that will ease the burden on residents who previously travelled long distances in search of medical services.
“For many years, our people were forced to travel over 15 kilometres to Ciampu, Tseikuru and Katse dispensaries to access treatment. Today, we bring healthcare closer to the people of Gatoroni and surrounding villages,” the Governor said.
The fully operational dispensary offers a range of essential services including outpatient care and maternity services. It is equipped with a functional maternity bed and basic medical infrastructure aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes within the ward.
Health officials noted that the facility is expected to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in the area while also improving access to timely medical attention for common illnesses, injuries and preventive healthcare services.
During the same development tour, Governor Malombe jointly commissioned other community projects in partnership with Compassion International Kenya. Among them was the Gategi Farmers Marketing Cooperative Society, established to help local farmers access better markets for their produce and improve household incomes.
The Governor also commissioned the Church of God Kamayagi Water Project, which is set to enhance access to clean and reliable water for residents, thereby improving sanitation and public health across the community.
As part of the visit, Governor Malombe toured Tharaka University – Great Tana Campus where he reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to supporting education and youth empowerment initiatives. He was accompanied by members of his cabinet, Tharaka Ward MCA Muthengi Ndagara and other county officials who lauded the projects as key drivers of development in the region.
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