Senate Committee demands action on Siaya County Hospitals’ audit queries

Senate Committee demands action on Siaya County Hospitals’ audit queries

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

Today, the Senate County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee, led by Senator Godfrey Osotsi, convened to examine the Auditor General's report concerning Siaya County hospitals. The report revealed critical deficiencies in governance, asset management, and compliance with health policy guidelines across several healthcare facilities, including Siaya Referral Hospital, Got Agulu, Madiany, Rwamba, Ukwala, and Uyawi hospitals.

Governor James Orengo appeared before the committee to answer for the 2022 and 2023 audit findings, which revealed a troubling lack of financial accountability and oversight. Key issues included unverified financial statements, missing management boards, incomplete asset registers, and the absence of crucial land ownership documents. Senator Osotsi stressed the importance of these elements, stating, "Hospitals cannot function effectively without proper asset documentation and accurate financial reporting. This jeopardizes their ability to serve the public."

The committee expressed grave concern over the hospitals' failure to comply with the Kenya Quality Model for Health Policy Guidelines, particularly regarding staff and equipment shortages. Siaya Referral Hospital, for instance, faces a 31.8% staff deficit, with critical departments like anaesthesiology and radiology severely understaffed. Senator Osotsi referred to this as "a direct violation of the constitutional right to healthcare" and asked the Governor for immediate take action to rectify the situation.

The committee issued a series of directives to address these issues. Governor Orengo must secure land ownership documents for all hospitals and ensure asset valuations are included in financial statements. Additionally, management boards must be established to improve governance, and accounting officers are required to correct errors in financial statements. "These steps are non-negotiable," Senator Osotsi declared. "Accurate records and robust governance are the bedrock of a functional healthcare system."

Furthermore, the committee pledged to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to address concerns related to the Managed Equipment Service and ensure compliance with national health standards. Senator Osotsi reiterated the committee's dedication to holding officials accountable and ensuring quality healthcare for the residents of Siaya County.