Nyeri nurses accuse counties of delayed pay, promotions

NYERI: Nurses have decried rampant delay by county governments to pay their salaries.

The nurses, under their umbrella Kenya Progressive Nurses Association (KPNA) said counties were treating them like second-class employees.

Speaking during the annual KPNA meeting at Kagumo Teachers’ College in Tetu, Nyeri County, they also raised the issue of lack of promotion. “There are thousands of nurses who have stagnated for up to 15 years in one job group. The counties should know that promotions usually raise the morale of staff,” Ms Loise Kantai from Narok said.

Ms A Lubanga from Western Kenya observed that the salary delays were reflected countrywide, hence raising concerns over the county governments’ commitment to handling the medics’ welfare.

And Mr Godfrey Anola blamed tribalism for lack of promotions, saying nurses from certain communities were often overlooked.

The theme of this year’s KPNA conference was ‘Towards Vision 2030: Strengthening nursing and midwifery for better health outcomes in a devolved system’.

KPNA chairman Thaddeus Mayaka urged nurses to guard devolution, saying it was the only way to improve their welfare and step up healthcare provision.

“We urge the county and national governments to be keen when it comes to nurses’ pensions, promotions and transfers,” Mayaka said.

Kisii Governor James Ongwae, who was the chief guest, during the closing of the two-day event, said although there were some hitches, most counties had improved the welfare of their medical staff, established more health facilities and acquired modern equipment.

He urged counties to streamline their payrolls to ensure nurses are paid on time, with other county staff.