Nurses in Kenya are demanding better working conditions, including the implementation of policies, improved work environments, and solutions to staff shortages. These demands were voiced by Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Secretary General Seth Panyako and President of the National Nurses Association of Kenya Collins Otieno, who highlighted fatigue among nurses due to the lack of adequate staffing. The nurses' concerns were raised during Nurses Week celebrations at Migori Stadium, themed 'Caring for Nurses strengthens the economy'.

Mr. Panyako noted that nurses are frequently unable to take leave and suffer from burnout due to severe staff shortages. Union leaders emphasized the need for motivation through promotions and redesigned job groups, pointing out that nurses, despite being the backbone of the healthcare system, face discrimination in leadership, management, and financial matters. Panyako stressed the desire for nurses to have representation at all levels of decision-making.

The Secretary General called for the implementation of approved career progression plans and urged county governments to address the shortage of nurses and promote those who have remained in the same positions for extended periods. Additionally, nurses are advocating for the implementation of return-to-work formulas.

Union officials also raised concerns about access to healthcare services under the Social Health Authority (SHA), arguing that nurses are unable to access the same services they provide. They criticized SHA, suggesting the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) was a better system for nurses' healthcare access. Otieno urged the government to end discrimination against nurses, citing denied training opportunities due to staff shortages. He mentioned that new career guidelines have been developed and approved by the Public Service Commission.

Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko addressed the nurses' concerns, pledging to prioritize promotions in the upcoming budget. He mentioned the employment of 37 nurses out of 80 new health workers and plans to recruit an additional 13 nurses, supported by a supplementary budget. Senator Sifuna criticized the handling of nurses' issues and urged the government to support healthcare workers. He suggested amendments to NHIF to address existing loopholes and promised ongoing support for nurses.