During the official opening of the Ngaakaa Health Facility in January 2026, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. highlighted how the new centre is improving access to quality healthcare for the village and surrounding areas. For Esther Mutheu, a 27‑year‑old from Ngaakaa Village, the birth of her daughter Zawadi was not just a personal event but a testament to the impact of nearby medical services.
The week‑old baby was brought to the health centre for a routine check‑up. The facility, created earlier this year through a partnership among the Makueni County Government, World Vision and Mountain Blue Foundation, now serves as a vital resource for residents seeking local care.
Esther gave birth there on June 14 and described the experience as smooth and reassuring. Located just a 20‑minute walk from her home, the clinic has drastically cut the distance people previously had to travel for essential health services.
The World Health Organization recommends that health facilities be within five kilometresor roughly an hour’s walkof the communities they serve. In Makueni, Governor Kilonzo’s administration is expanding primary care to bring services closer, ensuring timely routine care, maternal support and emergency treatment.
According to Esther, labour began around 2 a.m. She called a boda‑boda rider who drove her to the clinic in time. Once there, healthcare workersnow based at the facilityprovided prompt assistance, making her delivery safe and memorable.
Benson Musyoka, Nurse‑in‑Charge, was seen checking on the one‑month‑old Zawadi during a routine visit.
Julius Musila, Chairperson of the Ngaakaa Health Centre Committee, shared that the facility’s presence has personal significance. He recalled a painful experience when his late father required urgent care at night, and the nearest hospital was Makindu Sub‑County Hospital. The long journey was costly and prevented timely treatment.
During a routine visit by county health officials, residents praised Governor Mutula for fostering partnerships that enhance healthcare access in rural communities. They urged continued collaboration to improve service delivery and the well‑being of Makueni residents.
Governor Mutula also noted that money previously spent on transport to distant facilities can now be redirected to household and economic activities. He lauded the partnership with World Vision that built the modern centre and emphasized that there is room to expand services further as the county strengthens healthcare access across Makueni.