Our Journey Through Time

The Vision Begins

The General Superintendent of the East Africa District of the Methodist Church observed in his annual report the need for a healing ministry in Meru. This vision would take a decade to materialize.

Hospital Construction Approved

The British Methodist Church approved the building of a 50-bed hospital. Construction began immediately, marking the beginning of healthcare infrastructure in the region.

Berresford Memorial Hospital Opens

The hospital was officially opened on July 15th, 1930, named 'Berresford Memorial Hospital' in remembrance of Thomas Berresford, a young man who had planned to become a doctor but died at age 22. His family donated his university fees to build the hospital.

Berresford Avenue

The main hospital driveway is named Berresford Avenue in honour of the Berresford family, who made a tremendous contribution to the medical ministry in Maua.

Healthcare Training Begins

A programme to train dressers was started, later upgraded to nursing care staff. This was the beginning of our commitment to healthcare education and capacity building.

Community Outreach Begins

Midwife Sr. Muriel Chalkley went into the community talking to chiefs and various groups, encouraging mothers to deliver in the hospital. Major achievements included training Community Health Workers and Traditional Birth Attendants.

Community Health & Enrolled Nursing

The certificate programme of Enrolled Community Nurses was started under Sr. Meg Bailey. The Community Health Department (CHD) was also established, extending care beyond hospital walls.

Diploma Nursing Programme

The School of Nursing was approved for training nurses at Diploma (KRCHN) level, becoming one of Kenya's best nursing schools with near 100% pass rate every year.

HIV/AIDS Programs Launch

Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMCT) of HIV/AIDS program launched in collaboration with Christian Health Association of Kenya. Orphan support project also initiated.

Palliative Care Initiative

Community-owned palliative care projects launched by churches in collaboration with Maua Hospital. Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) centers established.

Levens Luckman Award - 2nd Place

MMH achieved second place in the prestigious Levens Luckman Award, given by the Nursing Association of Kenya for excellence in patient care and hygiene standards.

Levens Luckman Award - 1st Place

MMH achieved FIRST PLACE in the Levens Luckman Award! This remarkable achievement, despite rural location and limited resources, demonstrated our commitment to excellence.

Record Service Numbers

Almost 80,000 outpatients treated (up from 56,000 in 2005). Over 11,000 inpatients (up from 8,000). Births increased 88% from 1,611 (2006) to 3,031 (2008).

Infrastructure Development

Through partnership with overseas works teams, the hospital installed 2 water boreholes, dependable water supply from hills, high-level water tank, fire hydrants, and many buildings.

Methodist College of Health Sciences

The School was renamed Methodist College of Health Sciences (MCHS), diversifying programmes to include KRCHN, Health Information/Records management, and many others.

COVID-19 Pandemic Response

Implemented automated handwashing stations, temperature screening, PPE provision for staff, and isolation wards. Despite challenges, ensured continued quality care. Staff demonstrated remarkable teamwork and resilience.

MMH Today - Key Statistics

275 Beds | 400+ Staff | Serving 600000+ Population | 98 Years of Service

As of February 2026, MMH continues to serve as a beacon of hope and healing in Meru County and beyond.