Natembeya Backs University Plan as Ruto Pushes for KSh1 Billion Hospital

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has proposed converting Wamalwa Kijana Hospital into a university once a new KSh1 billion Level 5 hospital becomes operational in the county.

Speaking on Monday, Natembeya denied claims that he was blocking development projects, saying his administration was ready to work with the national government. However, he argued that the county needed to invest more in higher education rather than concentrate on expanding healthcare facilities.

The governor said the proposed Level 5 hospital would provide sufficient high-level healthcare services, allowing the county to consider using Wamalwa Kijana Hospital for university education. He argued that having several major hospitals in the same urban area could offer limited additional benefits compared with establishing a university.

Natembeya said a university would expand access to higher education for local students and create opportunities for employment, research and investment. Trans Nzoia does not currently have an independently operating public or private university within its borders, a gap that local leaders have identified as a barrier to regional development.

The proposal also comes amid plans for a partnership between the Trans Nzoia County Government and Nigeria's Bells University of Technology. Earlier this year, the two parties signed a memorandum of understanding to support the establishment of a university in the county.

Natembeya has not confirmed whether Wamalwa Kijana Hospital would be incorporated into the proposed partnership. His latest remarks, however, raise questions about the location, funding and development of the planned institution.

Despite the disagreement over development priorities, the governor said the county would cooperate with Kenya Defence Forces personnel expected to oversee construction of the new Level 5 hospital. His position suggests that the dispute centres on planning and resource allocation rather than opposition to the hospital itself.

The disagreement has exposed tensions between Natembeya and President William Ruto over the implementation of development projects in Trans Nzoia. In recent weeks, Ruto has accused the governor of frustrating plans to build the hospital, while Natembeya has argued that county governments should have a greater role in determining local development priorities.

Natembeya has also accused the national government of taking credit for projects funded through county resources and external partnerships. He cited the opening of the Masinde Muliro market, which he said was built using county funds with support from the World Bank.

The governor argued that presenting the market as a national government achievement misrepresented the county's contribution and undermined its role in delivering development projects.