In response to the recent death of a three-year-old child at Longisa County Hospital, Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok has announced significant changes in the county’s health department.
The reorganization aims to restore public trust and improve service delivery amid public outcry and allegations of negligence.
The tragic incident involved Ruth Chepngeno, who was taken to the facility after being stung by bees.
Her family alleges that despite her worsening condition, hospital staff left her unattended, ultimately leading to her death.
The family recounts that Chepngeno and three other children, who were also stung, showed signs of distress, including swelling and visible discomfort, yet they received only minimal attention.
Following Chepngeno’s death, leaders from various sectors pressured Governor Barchok to take decisive action.
In response, he appointed Benard Sowek as the new County Director of Health, while Ronald Kibet, who previously served in an acting capacity, was named the new Medical Superintendent at Longisa Hospital.
Governor Barchok said in a statement that these appointments reflect his administration’s commitment to better healthcare for all Bomet residents.
“These changes are part of our commitment to enhancing healthcare standards,” he said. “They take effect immediately.”
Further changes include reassigning Andrew Cheruiyot to Special Clinics, where he will focus on specialized healthcare services.
Julius Magut has been appointed to oversee clinical officers, while Paul Sigei will supervise Clinical Officer internships, focusing on mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Additionally, Alfred Bett will assume the role of Nursing Officer in charge of improving nursing care across the county’s health facilities.
The Bomet Health Centre will now be led by Stephen Kombich, who will also serve as the County AIDS and STI Coordinator (CASCO), a role focused on strengthening public health programs.
County Health CEC Joseph Sitonik also commented on the situation, stating that a comprehensive review of Longisa Hospital’s operations would be conducted to address quality gaps and emergency protocols.
He assured that healthcare staff present on the night of Chepngeno’s death were undergoing disciplinary review and warned that legal action would follow if negligence was confirmed.
The incident has drawn substantial attention on social media, with an amateur video highlighting the family’s ordeal.
Chepngeno’s aunt, Joan Cherotich, shared that despite the children’s clear signs of discomfort, staff assumed their pain would resolve without intervention.
The family had requested a transfer to Tenwek Hospital for specialized care but faced delays. When they finally arrived, Chepngeno’s condition had deteriorated, and she was pronounced dead upon arrival.
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