The healthcare system in Homa Bay County has come to a standstill after more than 800 nurses went on strike, accusing Governor Gladys Wanga’s administration of failing to honour a crucial Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The nurses, under the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), say the county government has repeatedly ignored their grievances, leaving them with no choice but to take action.
Governor Wanga, a prominent ODM politician, is now facing harsh criticism for focusing more on public relations than on delivering meaningful solutions to the county’s problems.
Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga waves at the crowd during a past event. Photo: Tuko Source: Facebook
While her administration paints a rosy picture of progress, the reality in public health facilities tells a completely different story.
Nurses are complaining about delayed salaries, unremitted deductions for insurance and loans, and unfulfilled promotions.
“We’ve been patient for far too long. This government has failed us,” said Emardic Okeyo, KNUN’s Homa Bay branch Executive Secretary, during a press briefing at the county referral hospital.
Okeyo, alongside branch chairperson Amos Ogaga, insisted that they will not return to work until their demands are met.
Interim ODM leader Governor Anyang Nyong’o of Kisumu and ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga having a chat. Photo: Gladys Wanga Source: Facebook
Among their grievances are the county’s failure to recruit additional nurses to address acute staff shortages, implement a housing allowance adjustment ordered by the SRC in 2024, and operationalise the director of Nursing Services office.
“We are overworked, underpaid, and ignored. Enough is enough,” Ogaga added.
For the residents of Homa Bay, this strike is devastating. Many rely on public hospitals for medical care, and the disruption has left them stranded.
As frustration grows, Governor Wanga is under pressure to act decisively and prove her commitment to the people who elected her.
The question now is whether her administration will prioritise real change or continue to offer empty promises as healthcare workers and residents suffer.
