Story by Sherine Atieno and Photos by Ondari Ogega
“Nurses are the backbone of healthcare; the first to comfort patients in distress and the last to leave their side.”
These were the resounding sentiments that set the tone during the 67th International Annual Scientific Conference of the National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK) held at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel, Kisumu, from 29th to 31st October 2025.
Held under the theme “Nursing Power to Change the World: A Call to Transformative Healthcare,” the conference brought together nursing professionals, policymakers, healthcare CEOs, and leaders from across the country to reflect on the evolving role of nurses in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and strengthening Kenya’s healthcare systems.
Representing Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joshua Okise called for strategic investment and deliberate budgetary allocation to strengthen the nursing workforce across the country.
“We are doing a good job in our healthcare sector. However, universal health coverage cannot be fully realized without addressing the national staffing gap,” said Dr. Okise. “If the gap is not budgeted for, implementation becomes a challenge. As CEOs, we must be at the forefront of advocacy to ensure sufficient funds to employ and retain our workforce.”
Dr. Okise reaffirmed JOOTRH’s unwavering commitment to enhancing workforce welfare and professional growth, noting that the hospital is scaling up continuous medical education, research integration, and welfare initiatives to improve staff morale and service delivery. He further emphasized that JOOTRH is expanding infrastructure and improving working conditions across all departments, particularly in nursing and specialized care units, to support a thriving and motivated workforce.
Former JOOTRH CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, echoed the call for investment in the nursing workforce. He noted the global migration of Kenyan nurses seeking better opportunities abroad, describing it as both a testament to Kenya’s strong nursing education and a challenge to local retention.
“Kenya is exporting some of its best-trained nurses. We must find ways to retain them through fair compensation, supportive environments, and clear pathways for career advancement,” said Dr. Lesiyampe.
The President of NNAK, Mr. Collins Otieno Ajwang, in his welcome address, lauded nurses for their resilience, innovation, and leadership, urging stakeholders to continue positioning the nursing profession at the centre of national health discourse.
“Nurses are not just caregivers, we are innovators, educators, and advocates who drive progress within our health system and beyond,” he affirmed.
As the conference drew to a close, Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o paid glowing tribute to nurses and reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving their welfare.
“Here in Kisumu, we recognize that without nurses, our healthcare system simply would not function,” said Prof. Nyong’o. “Investing in nurses is investing in the health and future of our people. We are committed to ensuring fair remuneration, a conducive work environment, and opportunities for career advancement.”
The Governor further highlighted Kisumu County’s strides in digitizing patient management, strengthening primary healthcare, and expanding community health units to promote preventive care. He also underscored the County’s forthcoming Cancer Centre project, which will integrate research, palliative care, and professional training, a reflection of Kisumu’s commitment to holistic and people-centred healthcare.
