Nairobi Hospital Celebrates Nurses as Pillars of Quality Healthcare
By Peace Muthoka
Nairobi, May 11, 2026 – The The Nairobi Hospital has celebrated International Nurses Week 2026 by recognizing nurses for their dedication, sacrifice, and critical role in delivering quality healthcare services across the country.
The celebrations, held on Monday in Nairobi, brought together healthcare professionals, nursing leaders, and partners under the theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.” During the event, speakers emphasized the need to invest in nurses through better training, improved working conditions, leadership development, and career growth.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, who was the chief guest, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the nursing profession as part of efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
She noted that nurses remain the backbone of Kenya’s healthcare system, providing frontline services and strengthening communities across the country.
“The Government of Kenya recognizes and greatly values the critical role nurses play in the delivery of Universal Health Coverage. Nurses are the backbone of our health system, providing frontline healthcare and strengthening communities across the country,” said PS Muthoni.
Additionally, she observed that nurses manage nearly 75 per cent of Level Two and Level Three health facilities in Kenya. According to her, they continue to play a central role in primary healthcare, maternal health, immunization, preventive care, and curative services.
At the same time, the PS said the Government is focusing on policies and investments aimed at improving nurses’ training, working conditions, career progression, leadership development, and retention.
Meanwhile, Felix Osano, the Chief Executive Officer of The Nairobi Hospital, praised nurses for their unwavering commitment to patient care, describing them as an indispensable pillar of the institution’s healthcare system.
“Our nurses embody the very essence of who we are as an institution. Their dedication, commitment, and selfless service continue to ensure safe, high-quality patient experiences,” said Mr Osano.
Furthermore, he reiterated the hospital’s commitment to strengthening the Nursing Division through continuous training, improved working conditions, and capacity development to support nurses in delivering world-class healthcare services.
He also commended the National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK) – The Nairobi Hospital Branch and the hospital’s Nursing Division leadership for organizing the celebrations and promoting excellence in nursing care.
On her part, Director of Nursing Services at The Nairobi Hospital, Margaret Muiyuro, highlighted the importance of investing in nursing leadership, professional development, and evidence-based practice to strengthen healthcare delivery.
“Nursing is a calling grounded in compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Investing in nurses directly improves patient outcomes and strengthens healthcare systems,” said Dr Muiyuro.
She further thanked the hospital for prioritizing continuous professional development, specialization, and leadership empowerment for nurses to help them respond effectively to evolving healthcare needs.
As part of the celebrations, outstanding nurses were recognized for exemplary service and excellence in patient care, reflecting the hospital’s commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and healthcare delivery.
International Nurses Week is marked annually from May 6 to May 12 to honor the dedication, compassion, and clinical expertise of nurses worldwide. This year’s celebrations focused on empowering nurses and recognizing their vital role in transforming healthcare systems and saving lives.
