MIGORI: Leaders from Nyatike Constituency are ramping up pressure for the establishment of a proposed Sh1.5 billion Level 5 hospital within the constituency, accusing the county government of consistently sidelining the region when it comes to distributing major development projects.

Meeting this morning to deliberate on their constituents’ development needs, the leaders said Nyatike has repeatedly been left out of major national and county government projects, particularly in healthcare.

Their concern was sharpened by news that the national government is considering a 300-bed Level 5 hospital for Migori County, with leaders raising red flags over how its location is being decided.

The leaders argue few areas need better healthcare infrastructure more urgently than Nyatike.

The numbers back their case: the constituency spans more than 677 square kilometres and is home to over 177,000 people, many of whom struggle to access specialised care simply because of distance and terrain.

Poor road networks compound the problem, some residents reportedly take more than two hours just to reach healthcare facilities in Migori town. Making matters worse, the constituency has no ambulance at all.

For the leaders, the proposed Level 5 facility isn’t just about beds and equipment, it’s a chance to tackle longstanding development gaps in the constituency.

Alongside the hospital push, they’re also calling for improved road networks and modern healthcare facilities, arguing these investments are key to raising living standards across Nyatike.

The push now moves to a consultative meeting set for Wednesday, September 30, at 9am at Wath Ong’er, where Nyatike leaders, elders and other stakeholders will gather to agree on a common position on the hospital and other development priorities.

Leaders have urged residents to turn out in numbers, calling the meeting a critical moment in shaping the constituency’s development agenda.