Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has confirmed a surge in patient numbers and congestion at the facility following industrial action affecting health services in various counties.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 20, 2026, KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard L. Lesiyampe said the national referral hospital was receiving more patients who would ordinarily seek treatment at county and other health facilities.
“KNH is experiencing increased patient volumes and congestion following industrial action affecting health services in various counties,” Lesiyampe said.
He noted that the increased numbers had resulted in longer waiting times and delays, particularly for patients seeking non-emergency services.
“As a national referral hospital, KNH is receiving more patients who would ordinarily access services at county and other health facilities. This has resulted in longer waiting times and delays, particularly for non-emergency services,” Lesiyampe stated.
The KNH chief executive urged patients seeking non-emergency care to consider alternative hospitals closer to them where appropriate.
“Clients seeking non-emergency care are encouraged to consider other hospitals closer to them, where appropriate, to ease pressure on KNH and facilitate timely access to care,” he said.
Lesiyampe, however, assured patients that KNH remains operational and continues to provide emergency and critical care services.
“KNH remains open and continues to provide emergency and critical care services,” he said.
The statement comes as industrial action continues to affect health services in several counties, pushing some patients to seek care at the country’s largest referral facilities.
KNH apologised for the inconvenience caused by the congestion and appealed to patients for patience and understanding.
“We regret the inconvenience and appreciate our clients’ patience and understanding,” Lesiyampe said.
The statement was signed by Dr. Richard L. Lesiyampe, CBS, in his capacity as KNH Chief Executive Officer.
