Wavinya Ndeti cedes more ground as nurses’ strike crisis hits Machakos County
By Kiprono Keileb, August 13, 2025Amid an ongoing nurses’ strike in Machakos County, Governor Wavinya Ndeti has highlighted the significant progress her administration has made in improving the welfare and staffing of nurses. She posted on her social media platforms on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, in what appeared to be a message to the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) local branch, urging the union to recognise the progress achieved over the past two years, noting that the strike is unnecessary for now.
“Over the years, my administration has maintained cordial relations with the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives local branch. Through constructive engagement, nurses in Machakos have achieved significant milestones,” Ndeti said in a statement posted on her official social media handles.
The governor detailed specific achievements in nurse recruitment and promotions. In 2023, out of 422 health worker promotions she approved, 132 went to nurses. The following year, 57 nurses were recruited to serve in various facilities across the county. In 2025, a further 183 nurses were employed and deployed, ensuring that health services reach more residents.
Between February and May 2025 alone, 231 nurses across all cadres were promoted, highlighting a focus on rewarding experience and competence. An additional 42 nurses are currently in the process of being recruited, while all nurses with over seven years of service have been offered immediate promotion, with the remaining staff scheduled for elevation in the 2026/2027 financial year.
“We urge union leaders to recognise the tremendous gains made in Machakos over the past two years regarding their welfare. We have dignity and values to uphold, and saving lives remains our foremost commitment,” the governor added.
Governor Ndeti emphasised her dedication to dialogue with union leadership, noting that her administration will continue engaging in phased discussions to reach an amicable resolution to the ongoing strike in the shortest time possible.
“To the people of Machakos, I remain dedicated to dialogue and will continue engaging union leadership to reach an amicable solution through a phased approach in the shortest time possible,” she said.
The governor’s statement comes as the county grapples with service disruptions due to the nurses’ strike. By highlighting the milestones achieved under her administration, Ndeti underscores a commitment to health sector growth while appealing for cooperation and mutual recognition from union representatives.
With continued recruitment, promotions, and structured engagement, the Machakos County government aims to restore stability in healthcare delivery while ensuring nurses’ welfare remains a top priority.