Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has commenced construction of what is expected to become Kenya’s first specialized Paediatric Neurodevelopmental Centre, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to improve care for children with developmental conditions.

The ambitious project seeks to expand access to specialized healthcare, rehabilitation, education and family support services for children living with neurodevelopmental conditions.

On Thursday, November 5, 2026, MTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Philip Kirwa officially handed over the construction site, paving the way for the development of the facility, which is expected to be completed within 12 months.

Once completed, the centre will provide an integrated model of care, bringing together healthcare professionals from different disciplines to offer coordinated assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and developmental support under one roof.

The facility is expected to address existing gaps in specialized services by bringing essential care closer to children and their families while strengthening access to multidisciplinary interventions.

Strategically located next to the Shoe4Africa Children's Hospital, Riley Mother and Baby Hospital and the Mental Health and Rehabilitative Services Unit, the new centre is expected to enhance collaboration and continuity of care across paediatric, maternal health, mental health and rehabilitation services.

The location will also promote closer coordination among relevant hospital directorates and healthcare professionals involved in supporting children with developmental challenges.

Speaking during the project launch, Dr Kirwa underscored the importance of the facility in strengthening specialized healthcare delivery across the region.

“At completion, in twelve months' time, the centre will strengthen the capacity of the two directorates of Paediatrics and Mental Health and Rehabilitative Services to provide specialized services to hundreds of children in this region,” said Dr Kirwa.

The centre is expected to play a critical role in supporting children's developmental progress, improving their functional abilities and enhancing their overall quality of life.

Beyond clinical care, the integrated approach will also recognize the importance of rehabilitation, education and family involvement in supporting children with neurodevelopmental conditions.

The project is being implemented through a partnership between Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and the Indiana Institute for Global Health Kenya.

With construction expected to take one year, the initiative represents a major step towards expanding specialized paediatric services and strengthening Kenya's capacity to provide comprehensive neurodevelopmental care.