Nairobi, Kenya- Nairobi Hospital, long regarded as Kenya’s premier private healthcare facility, is facing its most serious crisis in years — a combination of internal leadership battles and a standoff with major insurance firms that has left patients in limbo and facilities nearly deserted.
Insurance Pullout Disrupts Care for Hundreds
The turmoil began after more than ten leading insurance companies suspended coverage at the hospital over a disputed rate increase.
The move has disrupted treatment for hundreds of patients, including those in critical condition, expectant mothers close to delivery, and cancer patients in the middle of chemotherapy.
A spot check at four of the hospital’s five satellite centres — Galleria in Karen, Warwick Outpatient Centre in Runda, Roselyne Riviera, and the main facility on Agwings Kodhek Road — found empty corridors, reduced staff presence, and visibly fewer patients. Those who could afford it have already moved loved ones to other hospitals.
Outpatients have been turned away at billing desks, some forced to borrow money to continue treatment. Expectant mothers now face paying cash or seeking urgent transfers, while oncology patients risk delays in life-saving care.
Although the hospital has temporarily reduced prices in a bid to mend ties, insurers remain unmoved, continuing to direct clients to other providers.
oardroom Wars Deepen the Crisis
Behind the scenes, a bitter power struggle has engulfed the hospital’s board of management. Two rival factions, led by Dr. Barcley Onyambu and Herman Manyora, have issued conflicting statements claiming control of the board.
Manyora has accused CEO Felix Osano and company secretary Gilbert Nyamweya of unilaterally raising patient fees by up to 61% without board approval. Onyambu has dismissed Manyora’s authority altogether, accusing him of corruption and soliciting bribes from hospital suppliers.
The leadership dispute has now spilled into court, with the hospital seeking judicial intervention to resolve the management deadlock.
Negotiations between the hospital and insurers are ongoing, but there is no clear timeline for restoring coverage. In the meantime, medical staff are quietly referring patients scheduled for surgeries or deliveries to other hospitals.
With the twin crises of a boardroom feud and an insurance boycott unfolding simultaneously, the once-bustling Nairobi Hospital is now fighting for both its patients and its future.
