More than 100 infants and five mothers have tragically lost their lives since doctors in Kiambu County began a strike four months ago.
The strike, which started in May, has forced many patients to seek medical care in private hospitals or travel to neighbouring counties.
In a statement, Dr James Githinji, chairperson of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), said, “Since the strike began, over 105 lives have been lost. In September alone, two hospitals in Kiambu recorded 53 infant deaths.”
Official data from Kiambu Level 5 Hospital shows a disturbing trend: 18 infant deaths each in May and June, 14 in July, 18 in August, and 34 newborns lost in September at Thika Level 5 Hospital.
Health workers’ unions blame the county government for failing to address their demands, particularly regarding salary structures.
Peterson Wachira, chairperson of the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO), said, “Despite repeated follow-ups, the county government has refused to implement the agreed salary structure. The Ministry of Health has also not taken effective action.”
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Dr Davji Atellah, KMPDU secretary-general, added that patients who manage to access care in neighboring counties often face additional hardships, including transfers in broken ambulances.
“It is unacceptable that people are suffering because of the county government’s inaction,” he said.
The Kiambu County government, however, denies these allegations. Dr Patrick Nyanga, chief officer in charge of health, assured the public that health facilities are functioning normally and fully stocked with medicines.
“Our hospitals and clinics remain open and operational. When reports of a health crisis emerge from Nairobi, I urge people to consider the thousands of patients treated here daily,” he said.
In response to continued frustrations, health unions have threatened to escalate their strike action next week to highlight the worsening situation.
– By Timon Otieno
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