Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) and Uzima University have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at improving clinical outcomes, research, and training through their collaboration.

The MOU, signed at the hospital’s boardroom, outlines a renewed partnership between the two institutions, promising significant advancements and exceptional clinical care.

During the meeting, JOOTRH CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe emphasized the need for lecture halls at the hospital to not only facilitate education but also serve as venues for recreation and international conferences. Dr. Ong’ong’a, Director of Clinical Services, echoed the CEO’s call for strengthened research and training at both institutions. Dr. Mitchel Okumu, the Director of Research and Training at JOOTRH, encouraged colleagues to seek grants that would support collaborative research efforts.

The Vice Chancellor of Uzima University, Dr. Cosmas Rhagot, and the Director of Research Development, Partnership, and Innovation Mr. Phillip Nyaswa expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership. Dr. Rhagot praised the quality of care and the well-trained doctors produced through the collaboration, while Dr. Nyaswa commended JOOTRH’s high standards of cleanliness and care.

Mrs. Juliana Misore, the Dean of the School of Nursing at Uzima University, highlighted the importance of strengthening the training school through research to improve the quality of care. Professor Chris Oyoo, the DVC Academics at Uzima University, commended JOOTRH’s expansion of theaters and state-of-the-art equipment, which facilitate prompt surgical procedures. He also suggested the establishment of a radiotherapy unit to offer comprehensive care to cancer patients and the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence in pathology and forensic medicine to enhance accuracy and efficiency in postmortem services. The importance of mentorship and discipline in producing innovative healthcare professionals was also discussed.

The CEO also shared the hospital’s achievements and ambitious expansion plans. He highlighted an increase in ICU bed capacity from four to eight, with plans to reach 13 beds by the end of the year. The number of operating theaters has nearly doubled from five to nine, and the Victoria hospital, specializing in mother-child care, is expected to be operational by November 2024. Additionally, the Kosawo project, nearing completion, will serve as a primary healthcare facility, reinforcing JOOTRH’s status as a referral, research, and training hub.

In addition to physical expansions, the hospital is integrating advanced technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), in pediatric care. Future plans include a bone marrow transplant unit, pediatric oncology services, and radiotherapy services to reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for these treatments.

A new board, to be established at Obama Children’s Hospital, will include representation from both Uzima and Maseno Universities, fostering further integration of training and healthcare services in the region.

The CEO concluded by calling for a commitment to new ways of thinking and discipline in the workplace, especially when addressing generational challenges. This partnership is not only a win for both institutions but also a significant step toward strengthening healthcare delivery and research in the region, paving the way for future innovations.