Nurses in Kakamega County marked this year’s International Nurses Week in pomp and colour during a vibrant celebration held at Butere County Hospital, bringing together healthcare workers and senior county officials to honour the critical role nurses play in healthcare delivery.
The event was presided over by Kakamega County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Livingston Imbayi and Chief Officer for Medical Services Dr. David Alila, alongside other stakeholders from the county health department.
This year’s celebrations are being held under the theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies.”
Speaking during the event, Dr. Alila commended nurses for their dedication and assured them of the county government’s continued support.
“I am proud of the incredible work our nurses are doing across our health facilities. We remain committed to addressing key challenges affecting them, including recruitment and promotions,” said Dr. Alila.
He noted that the county has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure, including the acquisition of two dialysis machines and a CT scan machine at Butere County Hospital, with the dialysis services expected to begin next week.
Dr. Alila also pledged support for senior management training for nurses and assured the 93 nurses set to travel to Nairobi for the national International Nurses Week celebrations that all arrangements had been made, emphasizing that Governor Fernandes Barasa highly values their contribution.
CECM Health Livingston Imbayi praised nurses for their compassion and commitment to patient care.
“Our nurses remain the backbone of healthcare in Kakamega. As a department, we will continue improving their welfare and ensure future Nurses Week celebrations become even better,” said Imbayi.
Chief Nurse Hillary Nandasaba passionately advocated for improved welfare for nurses, reminding leaders that “you cannot pour from an empty cup.”
“Many nurses work long hours, often under pressure and with limited resources, but they continue to serve because saving lives defines who they are,” said Nandasaba, while calling for timely salaries, promotions, and better working conditions.
Dr. Eliud Molenje of the Kenya National Union of Nurses urged hospital administrators and medical officers to foster respectful and harmonious working relationships with nurses to improve service delivery.
Chief Officer for Public Health Rose Muhanda also lauded nurses, describing them as the first and most critical link in patient care.
“A nurse is often the first professional a patient meets in a hospital. Your role is invaluable, and you deserve appreciation,” she said.
Also present were CECM for Trade Godfrey Owour and Chief Officer Faith Gitira.
