By Violet Auma || violetmedia8@gmail.com
Nurses in Kakamega County, through their Union Secretary General Eliud Mwolenje, have issued a stern warning to the county government to address our long-standing grievances or brace for a nationwide strike.
Speaking during the Nurses’ Week celebrations at Kakamega County Referral Hospital, Mwolenje expressed deep frustration over delayed promotions and stalled employment processes that have plagued the nursing profession for years.
“We do not understand why it has taken so long to implement promotions and absorb new nurses. Tragically, three nurses have died and one has taken their own life due to unbearable frustrations,” Mwolenje said.
He lamented that some health workers under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program in Kakamega have been underpaid for over four years, while other health workers in different cadres in the country continue to receive better pay and treatment.
“We have been marginalized and treated as lesser employees. The continued inaction by the Council of Governors (COG) and the Ministry of Health is pushing us closer to a national strike,” he warned.
Mwolenje further noted that Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) signed as far back as 2017 remain unimplemented. He called on the COG to ensure full enforcement of the agreements and to stop overlooking the vital role played by nurses.
A crucial governing council meeting of the nurses’ union is scheduled for June 20, where leaders will deliberate on whether to proceed with strike action, depending on steps taken by county and national authorities.
In addition to delayed promotions and hiring, Mwolenje raised concern over unpaid salaries for retired nurses, with some yet to receive payments for up to three months. He urged county officials to fast-track the process and safeguard the welfare of retired health workers.
Chief Officer of Medical Services Dr. David Alila, alongside Acting Chief Officer of Public Health Rose Muhanda, assured the nurses that the county government is committed to addressing their concerns.
Dr. Alila, however, revealed a troubling statistics of approximately 40% of medical practitioners in Kakamega County are currently battling substance abuse.
In response, the county is developing rehabilitation programs to support affected staff.
He also lauded the nursing fraternity for their remarkable achievement of zero maternal deaths in the past few months, attributing the milestone to their tireless dedication and skill.
“Our nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system and the future of our county,” Dr. Alila stated. “Investing in their wellbeing strengthens not just health outcomes, but also the broader economy.”
Jacinta Angote, Chairperson of the Midwives Association of Kenya (Kakamega chapter), highlighted the critical role of midwives as frontline responders, especially during health crises.
“Midwives are at the forefront, ensuring safe deliveries and maternal care in even the most challenging circumstances,” she said.
Other stakeholders present included Nancy Luyeku from the Kenya Progressive Nurses Association and Charles Sande, Chairperson of the National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK).
Sande criticized recent ministry of Health circulars that require nurses to justify additional courses before being considered for promotion, a move he says has stifled career progression.
With nurses feeling increasingly neglected and essential services like UHC at risk, the next few weeks could prove pivotal.
All eyes now turn to the June 20 union council meeting, which may determine whether the county will face a full-blown strike unless swift and meaningful action is taken.
