Nurses under the National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK) have raised concerns over issues affecting their area of specialization as they gathered for the 67th Annual Scientific Conference and AGM in Kisumu. The nurses have demanded urgent government action to fix staffing shortages, policy gaps, and challenges tied to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The two-day conference drew nurses, researchers, and health experts across the nation to discuss innovations, health insurance, and the future of healthcare delivery. Their message was a firm call for nurses to be fully involved in shaping health policy and reform.
“We are here to showcase what nurses do and present data-driven evidence that will inform policy and transform healthcare delivery across Kenya,” said NNAK President Collins Ajwang, as he underscored the profession’s prominent role in patient care.
Ajwang lamented the acute shortage of nurses in public facilities, saying the workforce has been weakened by attrition, retirement, and resignations.
“Enough is enough. We cannot continue to do more with less and still provide quality care,” he said.
The Association also faulted the government over the delayed reconstitution of the Nursing Council Board and condemned what it termed the unfair dismissal of the Council’s CEO.
“This should never happen in a government that values nurses,” said NNAK Vice Chair Dennis Ngao Mbithi, who called for respect for the independence of professional bodies.
The nurses also urged the Ministry of Health to speed up reimbursement of health facilities as well as settle the pending insurance dues for smooth service delivery.
“Delayed payments cripple operations and frustrate service to Kenyans,” Ajwang added.
NNAK leadership said resolutions from the conference will be presented to the Ministry of Health to guide future policy and strengthen the country’s healthcare system. They say this move will safeguard both the professional caregivers and the millions of Kenyans who rely on them.
