Lusaka Pleads With Striking Nurses

Bungoma county governor Kenneth Lusaka has pleaded with striking nurses in the county to welcome dialogue to prevent further disruptions of healthcare services.

Speaking in Tongaren during a ceremony for a modern neonatal unit at Naitiri Sub-County hospital, Lusaka urged the medical personnel to prioritise the welfare of patients.
He further affirmed the county government’s commitment to addressing their concerns through constructive engagement.

“I understand the issues raised by our nurses, but I implore them to consider dialogue as the best way forward. The well-being of our people depends on a functioning healthcare system, and we must collaborate to find a solution,” Lusaka said.

Nurses in Bungoma began their strike on January 13, after a 21-day strike notice that they had issued to the Department of Health and Sanitation ended.
Their union official David Wamalwa justified their strike, saying that the county had failed to promote nurses as promised and re-designate specialised nurses while utilising their expertise.
He also noted of the county's failure to procure comprehension health insurance cover for nurses, citing delayed remittance of statutory deductions and implementation of new salary scheme.