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Nursing Managers Fault Union Over Strike in Trans Nzoia

Nursing managers in Trans Nzoia have faulted the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUN) officials in the region for calling for a strike, terming it illegal and politically motivated.

The union officials announced a strike action in all public health facilities across the county, citing the failure by the county government to honor conditions of a 21-day strike notice. According to the union, the county has failed to address critical issues affecting nurses’ welfare, including delayed promotions, poor working conditions, and pending allowances.

However, nurse managers dismissed the strike, insisting that the union officials who called for it are not in office legally and accused them of politicizing health matters at the expense of patients.

The managers spoke after holding a consultative meeting with County Secretary Truphosa Amere, the Chief Officer for Health, the Chief Officer for Public Service Management, and the County Executive Committee Member for Finance to deliberate on the health sector crisis.

“We want to tell those misleading our colleagues that they are not acting in the best interest of the nursing profession. We are on duty, and we have resolved to handle the issues raised while continuing to serve the public,” said Rose Wangila, a nurse manager.

The officials further maintained that promotions had already been effected for several nurses and that more promotions are underway. They assured that the county has begun a transparent process to address all pending cases.

The managers also condemned threats allegedly directed at nurses who declined to join the strike, calling for professionalism and unity among health workers.

On his part, Eric Wasilwa, leader of nurses in Trans Nzoia, noted that progress had already been made on the matters raised by the union.

“We had a fruitful meeting, and we have resolved to continue dialogue as we address concerns raised by our colleagues. Nurses should remain focused on service delivery,” he said.

The county leadership reiterated its commitment to addressing nurses’ welfare through structured dialogue rather than industrial action, urging all health workers to prioritize patient care.

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