Operations at Kenyatta National Hospital were disrupted after nurses staged a strike over delayed remittance of statutory deductions and other unresolved workplace concerns.
The strike raised concerns over patient care at the country’s largest referral hospital, with calls mounting for urgent intervention by the government to resolve the impasse.
It left many patients stranded and angry on the way forward.
Most patients were turned away from the facility as the strike went on.
One patient who had arrived for scheduled therapy was left angry at the parking lot as he wondered about his fate.
“This is a sign of poor management and the people suffering are the patients. We demand justice and fairness,” he said.
The nurses downed their tools on Monday, citing frustrations over unremitted funds, inadequate medical cover, and challenges linked to the implementation of the government’s eCitizen payment system.
They said the issues have persisted despite repeated engagements with hospital management.
KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe said most matters under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) had been resolved, with only a few pending issues.
“Most of the issues of the CBA were concluded. On remittance, we have paid up to February. What remains is for March, and we will pay before the 20th. I am not a liar and you know me well,” he said.
Lesiyampe added that hospital management would continue to operate in accordance with agreements reached with unions, noting that delays in some areas were procedural.
On nurse recruitment, he explained that some staff had not been hired under permanent and pensionable terms when he assumed office six months ago.
“There is no way I could address it without the board. I sent a circular two weeks ago,” he said.
He also acknowledged gaps in staff medical cover, saying the existing scheme was ineffective but had since been reviewed.
“I agree you are not properly covered. I found a cover that was not working. I went to the board and requested approval. It will now be effective July 1,” he added.
However, nurses insisted that their grievances remain largely unaddressed.
A nurse at the facility said the strike was a last resort after years of patience.
“We’ve been waiting for the CEO to sort us out, but he has not. The last time we were out like this was in 2017, so when you see us out, it is not a small issue. We are asking him to take our views to his bosses. We have been patient and loyal and want to be considered,” she said.
Another nurse raised concerns over the centralisation of hospital revenue through the eCitizen system, claiming funds collected are not returned to support operations.
She said the situation has affected service delivery, forcing patients to purchase medication externally due to shortages at the hospital.
“Patients are being told to go buy medicine outside because it is not available here, even basic drugs.
Meanwhile, we have financial obligations like loans, SACCO contributions, and medical cover that depend on these remittances,” she said.
The CEO’s address did not calm the situation as the strike went on stalling operations.
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