PS Muthoni celebrates nurses’ role in healthcare delivery
By Cynthia Lodite, May 11, 2026Ministry of Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has emphasized the pivotal role of nurses in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as Nurses celebrate Nurse Week.
Taking to her official X account on Monday, May 11, 2026, PS Muthoni affirmed the government’s effort towards strengthening and empowering the nursing workforce.
“The Government remains committed to strengthening and empowering the nursing workforce as a key pillar in advancing quality healthcare and Universal Health Coverage in Kenya,” PS Muthoni said.
On her part, the Health PS celebrated Nurses while noting that Nurses, who account for over 110,000 health workers representing nearly 58 per cent of Kenya’s health workforce, continue to play a critical role in saving lives, improving maternal and child health, and ensuring continuity of care across the country.
“Today, we marked the International Nurses Week celebrations at The Nairobi Hospital under the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” bringing together healthcare professionals, nursing leaders, and stakeholders to celebrate the vital contribution of nurses to healthcare delivery in Kenya,” she added.
“We also commend private sector institutions such as The Nairobi Hospital for investing in continuous professional development, higher education, research, innovation, and modern training facilities that empower nurses and strengthen resilient, people-centered health systems,” she added.
Nurses week
International Nurses Week 2026 is marked globally under the theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives.” It is a timely reminder of the central role nurses play in shaping health outcomes, strengthening systems, improving patient experience, and anchoring patient care across all levels of service delivery.
In Kenya, nursing remains the backbone of healthcare. Nurses account for the largest share of the health workforce and are often the most consistent presence in a patient’s care journey—from admission to recovery, and in many cases, through long-term management of chronic illness.
Meanwhile, as the country advances towards Universal Health Coverage, the nursing profession continues to be indispensable in translating policy into practical, lifesaving, and patient-centred care.
Over the years, the profession has recorded steady progress. Expanded training pathways, increased access to specialised education, and stronger professional regulation have contributed to improved standards of practice.