Kisumu: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) is on the verge of completing its transition to a fully-fledged national referral facility by the end of January. The hospital is finalizing the migration of staff, assets, and governance structures to solidify its new status.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise, announced that the transition committee had completed its mandate on December 11 and formally submitted its report to the hospital management board, the State Department for Medical Services, and his office. Dr. Okise, speaking at the Kisumu-based facility after a staff meeting, highlighted that the transition process focused on human resource transition, legal compliance, and the transfer of assets and finances to stabilize the hospital following its elevation.
Dr. Okise stated that the payroll management system has been successfully migrated from the Kisumu County Government to JOOTRH, allowing direct payment to staff with salaries being consistently paid by the 27th of each month. Key human resource instruments, including the HR manual, career progression guidelines, and staff establishment, have been developed and approved to ensure harmonized grading and remuneration.
Under the new system, staff will be placed on grades ranging from 1 to 14, aligning with national standards, rather than the previous 17-tier public service structure. Dr. Okise mentioned that the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) would conduct a staff audit in early January, with new appointment letters being issued by the end of the month. This transition is expected to result in improved pay for most staff, particularly nurses and support workers.
Contract staff who have served for over a year will also be absorbed on permanent and pensionable terms. On governance and legal compliance, Dr. Okise confirmed that the hospital had prepared the necessary statutory documents and compliance certificates, with the board set to be fully operational once remaining members are appointed.
As part of the asset transition, all hospital equipment and property have been tagged and documented, with an official handover by the Kisumu County Government scheduled for mid-January 2026. Dr. Okise emphasized the importance of this step for ensuring accountability and continuity of services.
The hospital is investing in infrastructure and equipment to support its expanded mandate, having procured 250 pieces of specialized medical equipment this year. A specialized cancer center is set to commence construction in January, supported by funds allocated in the supplementary budget, and the hospital's master plan is being reviewed to expand bed capacity amid rising patient numbers.
Dr. Okise noted that JOOTRH has recruited specialist doctors, including a resident neurosurgeon and cardiothoracic surgeons, reducing the need for referrals to other facilities. The hospital also received an ultra-modern ambulance through support from the national government and WHO, enhancing emergency referrals across the Lake Region.
Dr. Okise expressed confidence that with these systems in place, JOOTRH is poised to become a leading referral hub not only nationally but also in the wider East African region.