Nurses Demand Pay Rise After Surge in Workload

Thousands of nurses across Kenya have issued a nationwide strike threat, demanding better pay and improved working conditions after years of being overworked and underpaid. The Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) says they are overwhelmed by high patient loads—sometimes caring for 30 to 40 patients in a single shift—with no commensurate wage increase.
In many counties, nurses cite poor implementation of agreed salary structures and delayed promotions. In Trans Nzoia, for example, over 2,500 nurses are calling for the full adoption of a salary review formula issued by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), along with permanent contracts and better risk pay. One union leader warned that burnout and possible mental health issues are pushing many colleagues to the edge.
The grievances are compounded by a national shortage of nurses, which increases workloads and stress on the existing workforce. At Kenyatta National Hospital, more than 52 percent of nurses report signs of burnout, with many saying they take only one annual leave per year.
Union leaders are demanding full implementation of previous agreements, including higher base salaries and permanent absorption of contract nurses under Universal Health Coverage (UHC). They say that unless county governments respond swiftly, the looming strike could cripple public health services.