Dozens of nurses marched in Nairobi demanding action on labor grievances, as a strike now in its 37th day impacts public health facilities nationwide.
Nurses in Nairobi took to the streets wearing white and carrying placards to protest the government's alleged failure to address long-standing labor issues. The demonstration comes as a strike, which began in late July, continues to affect public health facilities across the country. Union leaders are calling for the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to issue a letter of no objection on their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Seth Panayko, Secretary-General of the Kenya National Union of Nurses, stated that there has been a persistent "push and pull back" between the SRC and the Council of Governors since 2017. Collins Otieno Ajwang, president of the National Nurses Association, expressed concern over the ongoing delay and its cost to patients and the healthcare system. Discussions between the union and the Council of Governors remain at an impasse, leading to intensified protests.
Joseph Chebii, secretary general for clinical officers associations, urged immediate action to prevent further losses and rising mortality rates among citizens. He called for unions, the SRC, national government, county government, and other stakeholders to return to the negotiating table to resolve the dispute. The strike's continuation raises concerns about the accessibility and quality of healthcare for the public.
Why it mattersPatients are directly affected by the strike, facing delays and potential harm due to the ongoing labor dispute and its impact on healthcare services.
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