Patients at Port Victoria Hospital in Busia had to be transferred on Friday after nurses went on strike in protest of an incident in which a health worker was assaulted.
The strike by the workers came after the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Secretary General Seth Panyako demanded immediate action against those involved.
“There is no work going on here until we’re assured of the security of healthcare workers. And if that does not happen in the shortest time possible, we will withdraw all healthcare workers in Busia County government within 48 hours,” Panyako said.
The ensuing work paralysis prompted families to move their loved ones to nearby health facilities.
Panyako revealed that the worker captured on camera being attacked has since recorded a statement with the police.
A college student in theater technology at The Nairobi Women’s Hospital College has since been identified as the main suspect.
She is said to have stormed an office at the facility while in the company of another person demanding quick delivery of healthcare services for her relative.
The Busia county government, in a statement, said property was destroyed in the process, including an oxygen concentrator.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Susan Nakhumicha condemned the incident saying the perpetrators will face the full force of the law.
She said healthcare workers deserve the utmost respect as they are the backbone of the healthcare system.
"They work tirelessly –sometimes under challenging conditions to ensure the well-being of all citizens across different hospital levels," Nakhumicha stated.
“This recent case of assault on a healthcare worker is not just an attack on an individual; it is an assault on the entire healthcare system and the principles that guide it," she added.
The CS was speaking while at St. Mary's Mission Hospital in Kakamega.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba also condemned the behaviour noting the law must take its course.
“The actions associated with me do not align with my values or commitment to public service. I unequivocally condemn any behaviour against principles of integrity. I am thoroughly investigating these allegations and will take decisive actions to rectify any wrongdoing,” he said.
The Nairobi Women’s Hospital College has admitted that the female attacker was its theatre technology student.
“To address this matter, we have initiated an internal investigation to gather all relevant information and will institute appropriate measures In line with our institution's policies and procedures,” Sandra Mbuvi, the hospital's corporate relations officer said.