UGUNJA/YALA – Major infrastructure projects are underway in Ugunja and Yala towns, including the upgrading of ring roads to bitumen standards and the construction of a Maternity Theatre Complex at Yala Sub County Hospital.
Former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, accompanied by Siaya Governor James Orengo, Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi, Ugunja counterpart Opiyo Wandayi, and other leaders, led the groundbreaking ceremony for these significant developments on Thursday.
According to Kenya New Agency, the Yala Maternity Theatre Complex, estimated to cost over Sh24 million, is set to revolutionize maternal and newborn child health services at the Yala Sub-County Hospital. The hospital, which currently handles about 100 deliveries per month, will see its capacity doubled with the new facility. This complex will feature a state-of-the-art theatre space, significantly enhancing healthcare delivery for women and newborns.
The upgrade of the ring roads in Ugunja and Yala towns is a key element of Governor Orengo’s strategic urbanization agenda. This initiative aims to transform Siaya’s urban areas into inclusive and friendly environments, fostering sustainable socioeconomic growth through strategic investments, productivity enhancement, and innovation.
These infrastructure upgrades follow the recent acquisition of Municipality Charters by Siaya, Bondo, and Ugunja, enabling them to benefit from the World Bank’s Urban Support Programmes. The road enhancements will include the construction of an asphalt concrete wearing course, a 6-meter-wide carriageway with 1-meter shoulders on either side, walkways, standard pipe culverts, and road furniture.
Furthermore, the World Bank-funded projects will incorporate the development of drainage systems and soil erosion protection works. These enhancements are essential for managing stormwater in the towns and their surroundings.
The upgraded ring roads in Ugunja and Yala are expected to significantly improve access to local businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities. The Yala town project, with an estimated cost of over 26 million, is slated for completion within six months. The Ugunja town upgrade, costing around Sh 47 million, is expected to be finished in eight months.