NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyatta National Hospital has sought to calm fears of a potential nurses’ strike, assuring staff, patients and the public that key concerns raised by unions are being addressed through ongoing consultations.
In a press statement issued Sunday, the hospital said it had taken note of media reports highlighting grievances raised by the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), including the possibility of industrial action.
Hospital management clarified that the issues at hand largely relate to delays in remittance of statutory and third-party deductions, as well as broader staff welfare concerns.
It said structured engagement mechanisms involving government agencies and staff representatives are already in place to resolve the matters.
“The Hospital Management wishes to assure staff, patients, and the public that the issues highlighted primarily relate to remittance timelines for statutory and third-party deductions, as well as broader staff welfare matters,” the statement read.
KNH confirmed that staff salaries have been processed and paid up to March 2026, noting that remittances for statutory deductions are tied to institutional cash-flow cycles and reimbursement processes common across public sector institutions.
The hospital explained that a significant portion of its operational funding is derived from national health financing frameworks, meaning delays in reimbursements can affect the timing of remittances.
“KNH continues to engage closely with the relevant government institutions to ensure that these processes proceed efficiently and that all obligations are addressed within the applicable administrative and regulatory frameworks,” the management said.
On pension contributions, the hospital maintained that it is operating within established pension administration systems to ensure both employer and employee obligations are met.
It also highlighted progress in transitioning staff from contract to permanent and pensionable terms, stating that many nurses and healthcare workers have already been absorbed, with discussions ongoing to address remaining cases.
“The Hospital has, over the past several years, made considerable progress in regularizing clinical staffing,” the statement added.
KNH emphasised its commitment to dialogue with unions and staff representatives, underscoring the importance of dispute-resolution mechanisms in addressing labour concerns without disrupting essential services.
As Kenya’s largest national referral and teaching hospital, KNH said it remains fully committed to the uninterrupted delivery of specialised healthcare services.
“The hospital calls for continued dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders as efforts continue to address the matters raised in a manner that safeguards both patient care and staff welfare,” said acting Chief Executive Officer Richard Lesiyampe.
Under the Constitution of Kenya 2010, workers have the right to fair labour practices, including timely remuneration and the right to engage in collective bargaining, while the state has an obligation to ensure access to the highest attainable standard of health.
