In marking Labour Day, the Chief Executive Officer of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, honoured the hospital’s support staff– the workers that included janitors, groundsmen and security officers – for their crucial role in maintaining safety, clean and hygienic environment that supports faster patient recovery.
Recognizing their invaluable contribution to infection prevention and control, Dr. Lesiyampe emphasized that cleanliness is key in minimizing hospital-acquired infections and promoting excellent clinical outcomes — in line with the hospital’s motto.
In a gesture of unity and appreciation, the CEO shared a meal with the team, symbolizing equality and reinforcing the hospital’s ethos that every staff member — regardless of their role — deserves respect and recognition. “At JOOTRH, we do not operate on hierarchy but on equality,” Dr. Lesiyampe stated, affirming the hospital’s commitment to inclusivity.
He also encouraged the support staff to pursue further training and explore entrepreneurial ventures alongside their current roles. “It is important to have a vision and a plan beyond today,” he advised.
Dr. Lesiyampe commended the outstanding work being done by the contracted cleaning companies, Getros and Polymers, in creating an environmentally friendly and patient-friendly atmosphere within the facility.
The hospital’s cleanliness has not gone unnoticed, drawing praise from recent high-profile visitors including the Principal Secretary for Health, members of the National Health Committee, and the Russian Ambassador to Kenya. Their positive feedback highlighted JOOTRH’s growing reputation for upholding high standards of hygiene.
The staff, filled with joy and gratitude, expressed appreciation to the CEO and hospital management for treating them as an integral part of the JOOTRH family. They pledged continued support and commitment, especially during the hospital’s ongoing transition into a national corporation.