Nairobi: Nurses and midwives have called for increased investment in the profession, improved staffing levels, and greater recognition of their contribution to healthcare delivery as the country marks International Nurses Week. Speaking during a media roundtable ahead of the launch of the Nurse of the Year Awards (NOYA) in Nairobi, Director of Nursing Services and Head of Nursing and Midwifery Services at the Ministry of Health Dr. Judith Awinja highlighted the critical role nurses play in Kenya’s healthcare system.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Awinja emphasized that the celebrations are an opportunity to showcase the vital role nurses play in healthcare delivery and national development. She pointed out that nurses constitute nearly 70 percent of the healthcare workforce, stressing that the health system would struggle to function without them. Dr. Awinja also announced the launch of the Nurse of the Year Award initiative aimed at recognizing nurses making exceptional contributions to healthcare service delivery. She noted that the award process would be fully digitized to ensure transparency and accountability, with the program beginning at the county level to provide equal opportunities for participation.
Kenya Progressive Nurses Association Chairman Michael Nyongesa acknowledged the significant evolution of the nursing profession in Kenya, noting its shift from certificate-level training to specialized degree and postgraduate qualifications. Despite the advancements, Nyongesa highlighted the severe staffing shortages the sector faces due to the low absorption of trained nurses. With about 11 nurses per 10,000 people, Kenya falls short of the recommended ratio of 25 nurses per 10,000 population, exacerbating the strain on healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
Margaret Muiyuro, Nairobi Hospital Head of Nursing Services and Chairperson of the National Nurses Association of Kenya, emphasized the adaptability of nurses to emerging healthcare demands through technology and evidence-based practice. She noted the leading role nurses played during the COVID-19 pandemic in public health education and the adoption of virtual systems for training and professional engagement. Muiyuro highlighted how digitization has improved patient monitoring, documentation, and safety in hospitals.
Eunice Atsali, Vice President of the Midwives Association of Kenya and Kenyatta University lecturer, underscored the importance of mentorship and leadership development in the profession. She called for stronger institutional support to nurture emerging healthcare leaders, emphasizing that proper mentorship is crucial for shaping competent healthcare professionals.
Wairima Maina, representing Registered Nurses Connect, stressed the need for improved public visibility and appreciation of nurses, warning that negative perceptions are discouraging young people from entering or remaining in the profession. Maina highlighted the major contributions nurses continue to make in cancer screening, maternal healthcare, and end-of-life care despite challenging working conditions. She urged policymakers to address staffing shortages and improve working conditions, while also advocating for balanced media coverage showcasing the positive impact of nurses in society.
The stakeholders concluded that strengthening nursing leadership, expanding employment opportunities, and recognizing excellence in service are critical for improving healthcare delivery and motivating healthcare workers across the country.
