Kenyan Nurses Call for Better Training and Equipment

Nurses across Kenya are raising the alarm over persistent gaps in their training and the lack of basic medical equipment, warning that these shortfalls are undermining patient care in public facilities. A recent survey indicates that a large number of trained nurses feel ill-prepared to operate new technologies or respond effectively in high-stress clinical settings. Many report that county hospitals often lack even the most essential resources, making it difficult for them to deliver quality care.
One of the most pressing problems is staff shortage, especially in neonatal units, where overworked nurses manage as many as 25 babies per shift—far more than what international standards recommend. While incubators and other advanced devices have been supplied to some health facilities, experts warn that without proper staffing, these tools cannot be used to their full potential. The heavy workload is compounded by reports that many facilities lack trained personnel to maintain and operate specialized equipment.
On top of training issues, nurses are also concerned about poor working conditions and a lack of longevity in their career paths. A recent survey found that a third of nurses are planning to quit the profession entirely, citing low wages, burnout, and limited opportunities for advancement or specialization.Meanwhile, nursing unions are calling for the rapid deployment of continuous professional development programmes — including mentorship, refresher courses, and hands-on equipment training — to boost both capacity and morale.
Looking ahead, advocacy groups and professional associations are pushing for more robust support from both national and county governments. Proposals under discussion include scholarships for specialized nursing disciplines (like ICU, neonatal, and mental health), the establishment of career-progression pathways, and investments in modern medical infrastructure. Meanwhile, a new partnership between KenyanNurse Consultants and the Kenya Progressive Nurses Association aims to expand access to clinical training and mentorship, giving nurses the tools they need to stay and grow in the profession.