By Andrew Kariuki

Nurses at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have gone on strike, triggering a fresh crisis at the country’s largest referral and teaching facility.

The health workers downed their tools citing a range of grievances, including poor working conditions, understaffing, delayed payments, unpaid uniform allowances and arrears, as well as inadequate medical cover.

They also raised concerns over employment terms, accusing the hospital of increasing reliance on casual and temporary contracts that deny staff job security and full benefits.

According to the nurses, the strike follows months, and in some cases years, of unresolved issues, particularly around delayed remuneration and difficulties accessing pension contributions.

The industrial action is expected to disrupt critical services at the hospital, with wards, outpatient clinics and emergency units likely to be affected, potentially leaving patients facing delays or reduced care.

In a statement issued on April 12, Acting Chief Executive Officer Richard Lesiyampe sought to calm the situation, assuring staff and the public that efforts are underway to address the concerns.

“The Hospital Management wishes to assure staff, patients, and the public that the issues highlighted primarily relate to remittance timelines for statutory and third-party deductions, as well as broader staff welfare matters,” he said.

Lesiyampe added that salaries have been processed and paid up to March 2026, noting that remittances are handled through structured arrangements tied to the hospital’s cash flow and reimbursement processes.

He further stated that pension contributions are being managed within established frameworks, while ongoing discussions are addressing staffing concerns, including the transition of some employees to permanent and pensionable terms.

“The Hospital Management remains committed to constructive engagement with staff representatives, relevant unions, and government stakeholders to resolve the issues raised through dialogue,” he said.

Despite the assurances, the nurses insist their concerns remain unresolved, setting the stage for negotiations between hospital management, unions and government officials as efforts continue to restore normal operations.