Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has moved to allay fears of a possible nurses’ strike, assuring patients and the public that concerns raised by staff are being addressed through ongoing consultations.

In a statement on April 12, 2026, Acting Chief Executive Officer Richard Lesiyampe said the issues highlighted by the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) mainly relate to delays in the remittance of statutory and third-party deductions, as well as broader staff welfare concerns.

The hospital emphasized that staff salaries have been paid up to March 2026, noting that delays in remittances are tied to structured payment arrangements within the public sector.

KNH explained that a significant portion of its operational funding depends on reimbursements under national health financing systems, which in turn affect the timing of remittances.

“Consequently, the timing of remittance processing is, in part, influenced by the broader national healthcare financing and reimbursement cycle,” Lesiyampe said.

Lesiyampe added that the hospital is working closely with relevant government agencies to streamline the process and ensure all obligations are met within the required administrative and regulatory frameworks.

On pension contributions, the hospital said it continues to operate within established systems to ensure both employer and employee obligations are fulfilled appropriately.

Addressing concerns about employment terms, KNH noted that it has made significant progress in transitioning nurses and other healthcare workers from contract terms to permanent and pensionable positions, with further discussions ongoing to resolve outstanding cases.

Lesiyampe said the hospital remains committed to dialogue with unions and stakeholders to resolve the issues amicably.

“As the country’s largest national referral and teaching hospital, KNH remains fully committed to the uninterrupted provision of specialized healthcare services to the public,” Lesiyampe said.