By Lorraine Anyango

The air crackled with anticipation as Professor Richard Lesiyampe, the newly appointed CEO of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), strode into his first meeting with the hospital’s Executive Committee. His reputation as a transformative leader preceded him, and a collective hope hummed beneath the surface.Prof. Lesiyampe takes over from seasoned Dr George Rae who heads to the County headquarters to lead resource mobilization for the Department of Medical Services Public Health and Sanitation.Professor Lesiyampe, with his infectious smile and booming voice, wasted no time setting the tone. “Clinical outcomes,” he declared, his eyes flashing with determination, “that is the reason why this facility exists. Every step we take, every word we speak, should be geared towards achieving them.” It wasn’t just a statement; it was a call to arms, a rallying cry for a hospital.His confidence wasn’t unfounded. Professor Lesiyampe’s resume is a testament to his ability to reshape institutions. His fifteen-year tenure at the Kenya Wildlife Service was marked by innovation and progress. Then came his transformative stint at Kenyatta National Hospital, where he steered the facility towards excellence. His subsequent appointments as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and the Department of Agriculture-Crop Development solidified his reputation as a leader who could not only dream big, but also translate those dreams into tangible results.While appreciating Dr Rae for his service and contribution towards the growth of JOOTRH, he acknowledges the challenges. “JOOTRH cannot be compared to the health facilities around,” he admitted, “having the best specialists in the region is not enough.” But his voice, instead of laced with despair, brimmed with a quiet resolve. He saw the potential, the hidden gem waiting to be polished. He saw the dedication of the staff, the yearning for something better. And he knew, with unwavering certainty, that together, they could make it happen.