Siaya County to spend Ksh2.6B on stadium upgrade and referral hospital complex
By Francis Muli, September 9, 2025Siaya County has launched the expansion of the Siaya County Referral Hospital and the completion phase of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium.
The county government broke ground for a new inpatient block at the referral hospital, valued at KSh500 million, as part of a broader KSh1.7 billion master plan to transform the facility into a modern three-wing complex. Siaya has allocated KSh300 million to the project in the current financial year.
Once complete, the new block will increase capacity to 500 beds, complementing the already operational surgical theatre and opening up room for specialized care.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya said the expansion will firmly place Siaya on the map as a regional hub for specialized healthcare.
“The new facility will provide specialized care, create jobs for our young people, and deliver better healthcare for the people of Siaya,” Tuya said.
“These two projects we are launching and groundbreaking today are a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to the people of Kenya. We eagerly look forward to the positive impact they will bring.”
Governor James Orengo echoed the importance of the facility, noting that it would ease the burden on residents who have long sought treatment outside the county.
“Around Lake Victoria, our people have often had to travel as far as Eldoret or even cross into Uganda to seek treatment. With this upgraded facility, that burden will finally be lifted and healthcare will change here for the better,” Orengo said.
Health Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Oluga urged residents to enroll in the Social Health Authority (SHA) to fully benefit from the upgraded services.
“Already 40 per cent of Siaya residents have registered with SHA. We encourage more to sign up so they can fully benefit from the expanded services once the facility is complete. This project is about fairness and access, ensuring no one is left behind,” Oluga said.
Stadium Upgrade
Alongside the hospital expansion, Siaya also launched the final phase of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium, which will be completed with support from KSh550 million pledged by President William Ruto.
The upgrade will expand seating capacity from 5,500 to 20,000, add new terraces, roof the stadium, and modernize surrounding infrastructure.
“This stadium, once complete, will be the best outside Nairobi in terms of design and planning,” Orengo said.
So far, the county has spent KSh700 million on Phase 1, with the total cost projected at KSh900 million.
Tuya emphasized the stadium’s role in promoting talent, community events, and regional sports competitions.
“The upgrade of surrounding infrastructure to modern standards will position Siaya as a regional hub for athletics, football and rugby tournaments,” she said.
The CS also clarified the role of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in the projects, stressing that their involvement would not deny locals job opportunities.
“Let me be clear. When KDF supports these projects, they don’t take away jobs from our young people and women. The jobs remain here in Siaya. KDF’s role is to offer technical support and supervision, ensuring efficiency, quick turnaround, and strict adherence to timelines.”
The two projects are expected to significantly boost healthcare, sports, and economic development in Siaya, cementing the county’s role as a regional hub.