By KPC Reporter
The Ministry of Health has made significant leadership changes at two of the country’s premier referral hospitals, aiming to bolster governance, clinical, and administrative systems.
This, according to Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale is in line with its Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Dr. Richard Lesiyampe Leserian has been transferred to serve as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the nation’s apex referral facility.
Previously the Acting CEO of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu, Dr. Lesiyampe brings extensive experience in health administration and reform.
Duale announced the appointment in a press release on Monday, emphasizing the critical role of healthcare in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Dr. Lesiyampe’s track record includes transforming referral hospitals through innovative leadership, earning him recognition as a “reformist” who applied a “Rhino Philosophy” of decisive action to overhaul systems.
Dr. Lesiyampe’s career spans roles such as Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, where he honed strategic management skills, and prior stints at KNH itself, where he served as the first non-medical CEO.
He assumed leadership at JOOTRH in February 2024, guiding it through key developments.
“The Government of Kenya has identified healthcare delivery as one of the core pillars of its Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” the press release reads.
“As the apex national referral facility, Kenyatta National Hospital plays a critical role in advancing health sector reforms and achieving Universal Health Coverage.”
In a corresponding move, Mr. Joshua Clinton Ombiri Okise has been appointed to act as CEO of JOOTRH.
The ministry stated that Mr. Okise will oversee a smooth leadership transition and support the hospital’s continued growth following its recent elevation to Level 6 status, which signifies enhanced capacity for specialized care and training.
Early reactions to the announcements have been positive.
Dr. Mathew Owili, Deputy Governor of Kisumu County, congratulated both appointees on social media platform X, highlighting Dr. Lesiyampe’s “stellar leadership” at JOOTRH that “redefined healthcare” and elevated the facility.
“Wishing both continued success,” Owili posted.
