Governor Ochilo Ayacko led the national celebrations for International Nurses Week at Migori Stadium, in a vibrant ceremony that drew participants from all 47 counties across Kenya. The event, graced by the First Lady of Migori County, Mama Agnes Ayacko, and other dignitaries, spotlighted the indispensable role of nurses in the country’s healthcare and economic systems.
This year’s theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies,” emphasized the pivotal contribution of nurses beyond their clinical duties—highlighting their influence in public health, disease prevention, and community well-being.
“Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system. Their service during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, has shown the depth of their commitment and compassion,” Governor Ayacko remarked during his address. He further praised their tireless efforts in safeguarding the health of Kenyans, particularly in under-resourced communities.
The Governor called for increased investment in the welfare and professional development of nurses, noting that strengthening the nursing workforce is essential for building resilient health systems and driving socio-economic growth.
The event featured awards and recognitions for outstanding nurses, as well as performances and speeches aimed at celebrating the nursing profession. Stakeholders from the health sector echoed the call for policies that support nurses through better training, fair remuneration, and improved working conditions.
The celebration served not only as a moment of recognition but also as a call to action—urging national and county governments to prioritize healthcare workforce development as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
