Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is struggling to manage a surge in patients following the ongoing strike that has crippled county health services in Nairobi and Kiambu.
The hospital says it is now handling more than twice its normal capacity as most county facilities remain shut or partially functional.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Richard Lesiyampe said KNH had become the main point of care for patients in urgent need of treatment, with many arriving in critical condition.
He noted that the Maternity Department had been hit hardest, with the Labour Ward and Newborn Unit stretched beyond capacity.
“Sadly, some mothers and babies are arriving too late, and a few have had poor health outcomes despite the best efforts of our dedicated teams,” Dr Lesiyampe said.
The hospital reported that the surge had placed immense pressure on essential services including operating theatres, diagnostic units, and the blood bank. Staff are working around the clock to meet the demand, but resources are being pushed to their limits.
KNH has pledged to continue providing care for all patients despite the challenges, saying it remains committed to saving lives under difficult circumstances.
However, Dr Lesiyampe appealed to both county governments and striking health workers to resolve the dispute urgently, warning that the situation could worsen if the industrial action continues.
“Restoring normal operations in Kiambu and Nairobi County hospitals will ease pressure on KNH and ensure that patients receive care closer to their homes and on time,” he said.
The strike, which has entered its third week, has left thousands of patients stranded, with many forced to travel long distances to seek treatment at the national referral hospital.
