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Kenyatta National Hospital Overwhelmed as Health Workers’ Strike Paralyzes Nairobi and Kiambu Hospitals
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is struggling to handle a sharp increase in patients after health workers in Nairobi and Kiambu counties went on strike, crippling public hospitals. Acting CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe said the hospital’s maternity, theatre, and diagnostic units are overstretched as hundreds seek urgent care. He urged for a quick resolution to ease the pressure on KNH.
Nairobi, October 8, 2025: Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is facing an unprecedented surge in patient admissions following the ongoing health workers’ strike in Nairobi and Kiambu counties, which has brought most public hospitals to a standstill.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe confirmed that the industrial action has pushed hundreds of patients to seek treatment at KNH, straining the facility’s capacity.
“Kenyatta National Hospital is witnessing an overwhelming increase in the number of patients seeking care following the ongoing industrial action in Kiambu and Nairobi counties,” said Dr. Lesiyampe. “With most public health facilities unable to operate fully, KNH has become the main point of care for patients in need of urgent treatment.”
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Critically Ill Patients Flood Maternity and Emergency Units
According to the hospital administration, the Maternity Department has been the hardest hit, with the Labour Ward and Newborn Unit currently handling more than double 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. Sadly, some mothers and babies are arriving too late, and a few have had poor outcomes despite the best efforts of our medical teams,” Lesiyampe added.
The sudden influx of patients has also stretched other vital departments, including operating theatres, diagnostic services, and the blood bank, as medical staff work around the clock to manage the crisis.
“The increased demand for care has placed immense pressure on essential hospital services. Our staff are working tirelessly, but resources are stretched to the limit,” he noted. “We appeal to all parties involved in the ongoing industrial action to resolve their differences quickly. Restoring normal operations in Kiambu and Nairobi hospitals will ease the burden on KNH and ensure patients receive timely care closer to their homes.”
Despite the immense strain, KNH has reiterated its commitment to continue offering life-saving care to all patients during this difficult period.
KNH Overwhelmed as Nairobi and Kiambu Health Workers’ Strike Forces Patients to Seek Care
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