Kenya healthcare services crippled by prolonged nurses' strike

A prolonged strike by nurses has paralyzed public hospitals and health centers across most of Kenya's 47 counties for over 40 days. The industrial action has led to a severe escalation in maternal and newborn deaths, with significant fatalities reported in counties including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Bungoma, Kakamega, and Garissa.

The deadlock persists between the Kenya National Union of Nurses and the Council of Government. Key points of contention include the full implementation of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), adjustments to salaries and allowances, and the payment of pending arrears. While counties claim they cannot meet the financial demands, which are estimated at Sh6 billion annually, the national government faces criticism for failing to intervene effectively compared to its rapid resolution of other labor disputes, such as recent airport worker strikes.