NYAMIRA NURSES JOINED GLOBAL CELEBRATIONS MARKING INTERNATIONAL NURSES WEEK, HONORED FOR LIFESAVING SERVICE

Nurses across the country joined in International Nurses Week celebrations marked through events and peaceful demonstrations held in appreciation of their critical role in healthcare delivery. The global observance, celebrated annually, recognizes the dedication, resilience, and sacrifice of nurses who serve on the frontlines of patient care in hospitals, communities, and emergency settings.

In Nyamira County, nurses participated in the commemorations held at Nyamira Referral Hospital in West Mugirango, where they came together in a show of unity, reflection, and appreciation for their profession. The event formed part of national and global activities aimed at honoring nursing professionals for their contribution to saving lives and strengthening health systems.

Speaking during the event, Nyamira County Executive Committee Member for Health, Donald Mogoi, praised nurses for their unwavering commitment, noting that they remain the backbone of healthcare service delivery in the county and beyond.

He said nurses continue to work under challenging conditions, often day and night, to ensure patients receive timely and quality care. Mogoi further revealed that the county government is working on plans to recruit additional health workers to strengthen service delivery and reduce workload in public hospitals.

Caren Ateki, the Nursing Officer In-Charge for Nyamira County, also expressed gratitude to nurses, noting that the county chose to hold its own celebrations in solidarity with the global observance rather than limiting activities to national events.

She acknowledged the challenges nurses face in their daily duties, including staff shortages and demanding workloads, emphasizing the need for continued appreciation and support.

“In several hospital departments, such as maternity and the wards, many nurses are helping the sick, and this is truly great work,” she said.

She further highlighted the vital role nurses play across all departments, describing them as the backbone of patient care and essential to the functioning of health facilities.

The Director of Medical Services, Dr. Jared Oego, also attended the celebrations and commended nurses for their dedication and professionalism in delivering healthcare services across the county.

Dr. Mogoi also noted that Nyamira County operates 116 public health facilities, but staffing levels have been affected by retirements and other workforce gaps, including at Nyamira Referral Hospital. He expressed optimism that the incoming county health leadership structures would help address the shortages through new recruitment.

International Nurses Week, observed globally, serves to honor nurses for their compassion, sacrifice, and critical role in healthcare systems. The week also highlights the need for better working conditions, adequate staffing, and continued investment in the nursing profession.

Across Nyamira and the rest of the country, the public joined in appreciating nurses for their tireless service, describing them as everyday heroes who continue to save lives despite numerous challenges.