Kenya Launches New Policy Frameworks to Strengthen Nursing and Midwifery Practice
Nairobi, Kenya - - Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale presided over the grand finale of the International Nurses Week celebrations in Nairobi, where he launched key policy and strategic frameworks aimed at strengthening nursing and midwifery practice in Kenya.
The event also marked the unveiling of the Nurses and Midwives Recognition and Awards Scheme, an initiative designed to recognize outstanding service, promote professionalism, and inspire excellence within the nursing workforce.
Held under the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future – Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” the celebrations brought together health leaders, practitioners, and partners to recognize the critical role nurses and midwives continue to play in strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Hon. Duale reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to investing in the nursing workforce through strategic deployment to underserved areas, strengthening professional training and continuous learning, and enhancing collaboration with county governments to improve staffing, welfare, and career progression.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that nurses and midwives remain central to delivery of accessible, quality, and people-centered healthcare services across the country, while applauding them for their resilience, compassion, and dedication in serving communities.
The event was attended by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms. Mary Muthoni, Director of Global Community Impact for Sub-Saharan Africa at Johnson & Johnson Foundation Anthony Gitau, Nursing Council of Kenya CEO/Registrar Dr. Lister Onsongo, and the Ministry’s Head of Nursing and Midwifery Services Dr. Judith Awinja, alongside county and national government leaders.