The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has announced that it is experiencing a surge in the number of patients seeking medical care, following the ongoing health workers' strike in Kiambu and Nairobi counties.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 8, KNH CEO Richard Lesiyampe said patients from Nairobi and Kiambu have been forced to seek treatment at KNH after the ongoing industrial action crippled services in public hospitals in the two counties.
“Kenyatta National Hospital is witnessing an overwhelming increase in the number of patients seeking care, following the ongoing industrial action in Kiambu and Nairobi counties.
“With most public health facilities in the two counties unable to operate fully, KNH has become the main point of care for patients in need of urgent treatment,” KNH stated.
Lesiyampe noted that KNH’s maternity department has been affected the most by the surge, with the Labour Ward and Newborn Unit now handling more than twice their normal capacity.
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The KNH CEO also said some mothers and babies are reaching the hospital too late, leading to poor health outcomes despite the tireless efforts of KNH’s medical staff.
Further, Lesiyampe said KNH’s critical services, including operating theatres, the blood bank, and diagnostic units, are under pressure due to the surge in patients.
“The increased demand for care has also placed immense pressure on essential hospital services such as operating theatres, the blood bank, and diagnostic services. Our staff are working tirelessly around the clock, but resources are stretched to the limit,” said the KNH CEO.
Additionally, Lesiyampe appealed to the parties involved in the ongoing industrial action to resolve their differences quickly to ease pressure on KNH.
“Restoring normal operations in Kiambu and Nairobi County hospitals will ease the pressure on KNH and ensure that patients receive care closer to their homes and on time,” he added.
Kiambu County medical professionals have been on strike for the last four months since May 26, 2025.
The medics are demanding improved salaries, better working conditions, and timely promotions.
On the other hand, Nairobi County doctors have been on strike since the beginning of October, protesting against delayed salaries.
The Nairobi healthcare workers are also demanding comprehensive insurance coverage and honor of work agreements.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) is set to hold demos in Kiambu County on Monday, October 13, to pressure the Kiambu County government to honor the demands of the medics.
