Patient Influx Strains KNH Resources

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), a vital national referral facility, is grappling with a significant increase in patients, many in critical condition, as doctors in Kiambu and Nairobi counties continue their industrial action. The strike has led to public health facilities in these counties being unable to operate fully, making KNH the primary destination for urgent medical treatment.

On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, the acting CEO of KNH, issued a statement highlighting the severe impact on the hospital's operations. He noted that the Maternity Department has been particularly hard hit, with the Labour Ward and Newborn Unit now handling more than twice their normal capacity.

“This has led to a sharp rise in the number of very sick patients arriving at the hospital – many in critical condition,” Dr. Lesiyampe stated. He added that some mothers and babies are arriving too late for adequate care, resulting in poor health outcomes despite the dedicated efforts of KNH medical teams.

Historical Context and Policy Implications

The doctors' strike in Kiambu County has been ongoing for over 130 days, with medics in Nairobi County recently joining the industrial action. This prolonged standoff stems from grievances including delayed salaries, poor working conditions, and the alleged failure of county governments to honour a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed with the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).

Previous doctors' strikes in Kenya have similarly paralysed health services, with patients being turned away from public hospitals and critical care services struggling with limited staff. A significant strike in 2017 lasted 100 days, highlighting long-standing issues within the healthcare system.

Stakeholder Appeals and Union Demands

KNH has appealed to all parties involved in the industrial dispute to resolve their differences swiftly to alleviate the pressure on the national referral facility and restore services closer to patients' homes. The KMPDU, on its part, has called on President William Ruto to dissolve the Kiambu County Government, accusing the administration of defying court orders, delaying salaries, and failing to promote doctors and provide medical cover.

The union had initially planned a demonstration in Kiambu County for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, but rescheduled it to Monday, October 13, 2025, to allow for broader participation and stronger coordination.

Evidence and Data

• Patient Surge: KNH's Maternity Department, including the Labour Ward and Newborn Unit, is operating at more than double its normal capacity.
• Strike Duration: The doctors' strike in Kiambu County has persisted for over 130 days.
• Impact on Services: The influx of patients has also strained other vital hospital services, including operating theatres, the blood bank, and diagnostic units.
• Alleged Infant Deaths: KMPDU has alleged that 136 babies died during the over four-month strike, a figure that Kiambu County disputes, claiming 58 deaths.

Risks and Implications

The prolonged strike poses significant risks to public health, particularly for vulnerable populations who rely on public health services. The inability to access timely and adequate care can lead to worsened health conditions and, in some cases, preventable deaths. The strain on KNH's resources also impacts the quality of care that can be provided, despite the tireless efforts of its staff.

Unanswered Questions and Controversies

A key point of contention remains the exact number of infant deaths attributable to the strike. KMPDU and the Kiambu County government have presented conflicting figures, highlighting the need for independent verification. The long-term impact on public trust in the healthcare system and the ability of county governments to uphold their agreements with medical professionals also remain critical concerns.

What to Watch

The rescheduled KMPDU demonstration on Monday, October 13, 2025, will be a crucial event to watch, as it may escalate the industrial action. The ongoing negotiations between the striking doctors and the Kiambu and Nairobi county governments will determine the immediate future of public health services in these regions. The national government's intervention, particularly in response to KMPDU's call for the dissolution of the Kiambu County Government, could also significantly influence the resolution of this crisis.