Government Moves to Retain Nurses as Nairobi Hospital Marks International Nurses Week 2026
The Government has pledged to strengthen the nursing profession through improved training, working conditions and career development as concerns grow over the increasing migration of Kenyan nurses abroad.
Speaking during the International Nurses Week 2026 celebrations at The Nairobi Hospital, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said nurses remain the backbone of Kenya’s healthcare system and are central to the country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
“The Government of Kenya recognizes and greatly values the critical role nurses play in the delivery of Universal Health Coverage. Nurses are the backbone of our health system, providing frontline healthcare and strengthening communities across the country,” said Muthoni, who was the chief guest during the event.
She noted that nurses manage nearly 75 percent of Level Two and Level Three health facilities in the country and continue to play a leading role in maternal healthcare, immunization, preventive and curative services.
Muthoni said the government is prioritizing policies and investments aimed at improving nurses’ training, leadership development, professional growth and retention.
“We are not saying we will stop nurses from migrating, but we must ensure they are comfortable working back at home,” she said.
The PS also paid tribute to nurses and healthcare workers who lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, describing them as courageous frontline workers who stood by patients during one of the most difficult periods in modern healthcare history.
“Some nurses became the only familiar faces patients could see in their final moments. Today, Kenya remembers and honors all those nurses and healthcare workers who lost their lives while protecting others during the pandemic,” she added.
The celebrations, organized by the National Nurses Association of Kenya Nairobi Hospital Chapter, brought together healthcare professionals, nursing leaders and partners under the theme: “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”
Felix Osano, Chief Executive Officer of The Nairobi Hospital, praised nurses for their dedication and commitment to patient care, saying they remain an indispensable pillar of the healthcare system.
“Our nurses embody the very essence of who we are as an institution. Their dedication, commitment and selfless service continue to ensure safe, high-quality patient experiences,” said Osano.
He reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to strengthening the Nursing Division through continuous training, improved working conditions and ongoing professional development.
According to the hospital management, over 716 staff members were sponsored for various trainings in 2025, including six nurses who attended international training programs in Finland and Washington DC.
Osano also acknowledged the increasing number of nurses pursuing foreign language studies such as German in preparation for overseas opportunities, but maintained that the hospital would continue investing in staff development and retention.
“We know some of you are studying foreign languages and we can see where you are going, but we will not shy away from supporting and investing in you,” he said.
Director of Nursing Services at The Nairobi Hospital Dr Margaret Muiyuro emphasized the need for continued investment in nursing leadership, evidence-based practice and specialized training.
“Nursing is a calling grounded in compassion, professionalism and a commitment to patient-centered care. Investing in nurses directly improves patient outcomes and strengthens healthcare systems,” said Dr Muiyuro.
Acting Medical Director Dr Reuben Okoma also lauded nurses for their immense contribution to healthcare delivery.
“Without nurses there can be no hospitals. Nurses stay with patients most of the time and contribute greatly to patient experience,” said Okoma.
During the celebrations, outstanding nurses were recognized for exemplary service and innovation in healthcare delivery.
Award-winning emergency nurse Stela Konuche said she was recognized for spearheading a project aimed at improving patient flow and turnaround time in the emergency department.
“I encourage fellow nurses to always give their best to improve patient outcomes and survival rates,” she said.
Konuche also urged the government to strengthen support systems and create better incentives to retain skilled nurses in the country.
“Many nurses are leaving the country and the government should find ways of retaining them so that our people can continue benefiting from their services,” she said.
International Nurses Week is marked annually from May 6 to May 12 to honor the dedication, compassion and clinical expertise of nurses across the world.
