Change of guard at KNH: Dr. Richard Lesiyampe takes over as new acting CEO

Dr. Richard Lesiyampe has officially taken over leadership as the new Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).

The change of guard was announced by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, with Dr. Lesiyampe succeeding Dr. Evanson Kamuri, who served in the role for six years.

In his farewell speech, the outgoing CEO wished his successor all the best in steering the hospital forward, while emphasising the importance of sustaining the highest standards of healthcare and treatment at the facility.

Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga, who presided over the leadership change on Tuesday, challenged Dr. Lesiyampe to devise ways of ensuring KNH generates sufficient revenue to sustain its services, noting that the hospital’s budget had been reduced by Ksh.3 billion, leaving a gap that must be filled.

“We don’t have much advice for him, we only have expectations that we will move closer to the journey.  The hospital has a lot of challenges around budget,” said the PS.

Returning once again to the country’s top referral hospital, Dr. Lesiyampe pledged to strengthen leadership and empower doctors and nurses to deliver better services to patients.

“I come back, not to do anything else but to provide leadership and allow the employees and staff of KNH to unleash their potential by providing an amicable environment,” he said.

Prior to his new role, Dr. Lesiyampe was the Acting CEO of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

He brings vast experience to strengthen KNH's governance, clinical, and administrative systems in line with ongoing reforms.

Mr. Joshua Clinton Ombiri Okise has been appointed to act as the CEO of JOOTRH, where he is expected to oversee a smooth leadership transition and support the facility’s continued growth following its recent elevation to Level 6 status.