Siaya Governor James Orengo has moved to clarify his presence at State House on Wednesday after attending a World Health Organization (WHO) donation ceremony presided over by President William Ruto.
The event involved the handover of ambulances, medical equipment, and emergency supplies to selected counties and referral facilities. Orengo’s visit quickly drew public interest due to his record as one of the most outspoken ODM leaders critical of the current administration.
In his statement, Orengo said Siaya County benefited from an emergency ambulance and a range of essential medical equipment.
He noted that the support would enhance emergency response and reproductive health services at a time when counties are working to strengthen their primary healthcare networks.
The governor added that the contribution reflected ongoing collaboration between county governments, the national administration, and international partners.
During the ceremony, President Ruto said the WHO donation aligned with ongoing reforms aimed at expanding universal health coverage across the country.
According to the President, the handover targeted seven national referral hospitals, the National Emergency Response Centre, and five counties—Elgeyo Marakwet, Marsabit, Siaya, Samburu, and Tana River.
He said the new fleet and supplies would strengthen referral systems, improve oxygen capacity, and support maternal and newborn health in regions facing high mortality burdens.
Ruto further emphasized that the resources would help counties respond more effectively to emerging health threats, including cholera and Mpox.
The initiative comes as Kenya continues to adjust its health financing and service delivery models, a process that has placed county governments at the centre of reforms since the introduction of devolution in 2013.
Orengo’s appearance at State House generated discussion within political circles because of his longstanding critiques of the administration’s broad-based government agenda.
His clarification sought to address speculation by underscoring that the visit was strictly linked to the WHO event and the county’s health needs.
The Ministry of Health is expected to coordinate the distribution of the donated equipment in collaboration with county health departments.
Counties that received ambulances are set to deploy them to high-need areas as part of efforts to reduce preventable deaths and strengthen emergency preparedness. Further updates on implementation are expected in the coming days.